Direct transoral manipulation to reduce a displaced odontoid fracture: a technical note.
BACKGROUND
Irreducible anteriorly displaced odontoid fractures are usually treated with posterior atlantoaxial fusion.


OBJECTIVE
To present an alternative for fracture reduction and anterior stabilization for displaced odontoid fractures.


METHODS
A technique for reduction of odontoid fractures is reported.


METHODS
Case study of a single patient with an odontoid fracture.


METHODS
Only fracture reduction and fracture healing were evaluated.


METHODS
After a failed trial of closed reduction with skeletal traction, a patient with an anteriorly displaced odontoid fracture was taken to the operating room for attempted closed reduction and odontoid screw placement.


RESULTS
Fracture reduction was achieved with routine maneuvers supplemented by posterior translation through direct oropharyngeal pressure with a padded laryngoscope blade.


CONCLUSIONS
Direct transoral reduction of odontoid fractures is safe and feasible and can be used to assist in reduction of anteriorly displaced fractures.
Ben-Galim
Peleg
P
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Reitman
Charles A
CA
D000293:Adolescent; D001863:Bone Screws; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D009809:Odontoid Process / Q000601:surgery*; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D014143:Traction