Craniocervical Abnormalities

WHAT ARE CRANIO-
CERVICAL ABNORMAL-
ITIES?

surgeons performing surgery on craniocervical malformations

Craniocervical junction abnormalities are essentially cervical spine defects in the highly complex area where the upper cervical spine and skull join together. These abnormalities can squeeze and damage the spinal cord nerves, which lead directly to the brainstem and brain. Craniocervical abnormalities may weaken the spine and cause serious neurological disorders.

While craniocervical abnormalities may be present at birth, they may also develop later in life as a result of disorders or injuries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of this condition include:

A burning sensation that spreads down legs, buttocks, or arms
Weakness, numbness, or cramping in hands
Numbness in feet
Back stiffness and pain
Ear ringing and pain
Involuntary movement of the eyes
Difficulty with leg and hand coordination
Off-balance feeling

Treatment

Craniocervical abnormalities must be diagnosed through a CT scan or MRI. After diagnosis, the treatment typically involves reduction then stabilization with an external device or through surgery. The surgical treatments may include:

A surgical procedure to stabilize the spine
Surgical decompression to help alleviate the pressure on the spine and brain
The Expanded Endonasal Approach (EEA) is a minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon accesses the skull through the nasal cavity. This process results in no incisions, faster recovery, and a shorter hospital stay in comparison to traditional brain surgery.