Atlanto-axial rotatory fixation complicating ventriculo-peritoneal shunt surgery: a case report and literature review.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Atlanto-axial rotatory fixation (AARF) is a rare complication of ventriculo-peritoneal shunt (VPS) surgery.

CASE PRESENTATION:

The authors present a unique case of AARF developing early after VP shunting, with persistent torticollis, a "cock-robin" head position, and a thick fibrous band along the catheter path. Due to refractoriness to conservative treatments, AARF, which can be an early-onset complication of VPS surgery, was resolved by removing the distal catheter along with the fibrous band encasing it.

CONCLUSION:

Surgical removal of the fibrous band might be enough to solve such complication with no need of further surgical fusion procedures.

• Authors: Costanza Zattra, Marco Paolo Schiariti, Emanuele La Corte, Morgan Broggi, Francesco Acerbi, Paolo Ferroli
• Journal: Child's nervous system : ChNS : official journal of the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery (Childs Nerv Syst) Vol. 35 Issue 4 Pg. 713-717 (04 2019) ISSN: 1433-0350 [Electronic] Germany
• PMID: 30276650 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Review)

Topics

• Astrocytoma (complications, surgery)
• Atlanto-Axial Joint (pathology)
• Brain Neoplasms (complications, surgery)
• Child
• Fibrosis (etiology)
• Humans
• Hydrocephalus (etiology, surgery)
• Male
• Postoperative Complications (etiology)
• Torticollis (etiology)
• Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt (adverse effects)