BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Irreducible anteriorly displaced odontoid fractures are usually treated with posterior atlantoaxial fusion. PURPOSE: To present an alternative for fracture reduction and anterior stabilization for displaced odontoid fractures. STUDY DESIGN: A technique for reduction of odontoid fractures is reported. PATIENT SAMPLE: Case study of a single patient with an odontoid fracture. OUTCOME MEASURES: 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.
BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Irreducible anteriorly displaced odontoid fractures are usually treated with posterior atlantoaxial fusion. PURPOSE: To present an alternative for fracture reduction and anterior stabilization for displaced odontoid fractures. STUDY DESIGN: A technique for reduction of odontoid fractures is reported. PATIENT SAMPLE: Case study of a single patient with an odontoid fracture. OUTCOME MEASURES: 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.