title: Transoral C2 biopsy and vertebroplasty.
abstract: Pathologic fractures involving the C2 vertebral body and odontoid process pose a unique dilemma, as the surgical approach for direct odontoid process screw fixation has several limitations. There have been a small number of transoral approach C2 vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty reported in the literature. Previous attempts were performed utilizing fluoroscopy or CT guidance. We report a case of a fluoroscopically guided transor-al approach vertebroplasty in a patient with a lytic lesion involving the C2 vertebral body, extending into the odontoid process with an underlying pathologic fracture. This case is unique as two separate punctures were required in order to adequately stabilize the pathologic fracture, CTA was performed preoperatively to better evaluate regional vasculature, and a post-procedure rotational flat panel CT was performed to assess cement placement.
authors.forename: Ian A
authors.initials: IA
authors.lastname: Kaminsky
authors.forename: Roger
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Härtl
authors.forename: Dimitri
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Sigounas
authors.forename: Stefan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mlot
authors.forename: Athos
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Patsalides
keywords: C2; biopsy; odontoid; pathologic fracture; spine; transoral; vertebroplasty