title: Craniovertebral anomalies: a study of 82 cases.
abstract: Eighty-two cases of craniovertebral anomalies have been analysed. Fifty of these were operated upon. Congenital atlanto-axial dislocation was the commonest anomaly encountered (56.1%). Multiple anomalies were frequently seen (48.8%). Common combinations were atlanto-axial dislocation with occipitalisation of atlas, basilar invagination with Arnold-Chiari malformation and basilar invagination with occipitalisation of atlas. There was a high incidence (50%) of neck deformity and/or a low hairline which provided a good clue to the diagnosis. Precipitating factors, paroxysmal symptoms and an acute onset were common in cases of atlanto-axial dislocation. Cranial nerve and cerebellar dysfunction were common in cases with multiple anomalies. Thirty-six (72%) patients improved following surgery, and three died.
authors.affiliation: Departments of Neurology Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Chopra
authors.forename: I M
authors.initials: IM
authors.lastname: Sawhney
authors.forename: V K
authors.initials: VK
authors.lastname: Kak
authors.forename: V K
authors.initials: VK
authors.lastname: Khosla
mesh_terms: D000015:Abnormalities, Multiple / Q000175:diagnosis; D000328:Adult; D001139:Arnold-Chiari Malformation / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography