From Anatomic to Genetic Understanding of Developmental Craniovertebral Junction Abnormalities

Respiratory abnormalities due to craniovertebral junction compression in rheumatoid disease.

OBJECTIVE To assess the extent and severity of respiratory insufficiency associated with severe rheumatoid atlantoaxial dislocation and its relation to compression of the neuraxis. METHODS Twelve patients with severe atlantoaxial dislocation due to rheumatoid disease were studied. Detailed clinical, CT myelography and respiratory assessment including nocturnal oximetry, were performed on all ...

Pediatric Craniovertebral Junction Surgery

The craniovertebral junction (CVJ) has attracted more attention in pediatric medicine in recent years due to the progress in surgical technologies allowing a direct approach to the CVJ in children. The CVJ is the site of numerous pathologies, most originating in bone anomalies resulting from abnormal CVJ development. Before discussing the surgical approaches to CVJ, three points should be borne...

Amyloidoma of the craniovertebral junction.

We report a rare case of localized amyloidoma of the craniovertebral junction causing severe myelopathy and respiratory distress and death. The clinical features and the natural history of this rare condition are discussed.

Craniovertebral Junction Chordomas

Biomechanics of the Craniovertebral Junction

The craniovertebral junction (CVJ) consists of the occiput and the first two cervical vertebrae, and functions as an articulation point capable of complex motions distinct from the remainder of the spinal column. These unique features make the CVJ more mobile than any of the other joints in the cervical spinal column, and important biomechanical properties must be understood in order to properl...