David M Cognetti1, W Scott Enochs, Thomas O Willcox. 1. Departments of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. david.cognetti@mail.tju.edu
Abstract
EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVE: At the conclusion of this paper, the readers should be able to recognize a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele as a potential complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate how a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele may present as dysphagia in a patient who is recovering from atlanto occipital dislocation as well as to discuss the treatment options in this situation. STUDY DESIGN: Case report and literature review. METHODS: Analysis of a case through medical record and literature review. RESULTS: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele is a very rare complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. It may develop weeks after the initial injury and can present with respiratory or swallowing difficulties. Decompression via a ventriculoperitoneal or lumboperitoneal shunt facilitates resolution of the cerebral spinal fluid collection. CONCLUSIONS: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele should be considered in all patients status post-atlanto occipital dislocation who are experiencing respiratory distress or dysphagia.
EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVE: At the conclusion of this paper, the readers should be able to recognize a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele as a potential complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate how a retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele may present as dysphagia in a patient who is recovering from atlanto occipital dislocation as well as to discuss the treatment options in this situation. STUDY DESIGN: Case report and literature review. METHODS: Analysis of a case through medical record and literature review. RESULTS: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele is a very rare complication of atlanto occipital dislocation. It may develop weeks after the initial injury and can present with respiratory or swallowing difficulties. Decompression via a ventriculoperitoneal or lumboperitoneal shunt facilitates resolution of the cerebral spinal fluid collection. CONCLUSIONS: A retropharyngeal pseudomeningocele should be considered in all patients status post-atlanto occipital dislocation who are experiencing respiratory distress or dysphagia.
Authors: Alec Vaezi; Carl H Snyderman; Hesham A Saleh; Ricardo L Carrau; Adam Zanation; Paul Gardner Journal: Laryngoscope Date: 2011-11-02 Impact factor: 3.325