STUDY DESIGN: Case report and brief literature review. OBJECTIVE: To describe a unique complication following C1/2 fusion in a pediatric patient. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Os odontoideum, if symptomatic or unstable, should be treated by internal fixation. Posterior instrumented fusion of the cervical spine is not an uncommon surgical procedure. METHODS: Direct observation and management of the patient during representation with postoperative complication. RESULTS: This case report details the previously unrecorded and unusual migration of a fixation device through the skull into the brain and outlines its subsequent removal. CONCLUSION: Failure of bony fusion can result in micromotion and subsequent migration of fixation device components. This can occur even if the screw fixation is apparently sound. Extended routine radiographic follow-up would identify migration earlier.
STUDY DESIGN: Case report and brief literature review. OBJECTIVE: To describe a unique complication following C1/2 fusion in a pediatric patient. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Os odontoideum, if symptomatic or unstable, should be treated by internal fixation. Posterior instrumented fusion of the cervical spine is not an uncommon surgical procedure. METHODS: Direct observation and management of the patient during representation with postoperative complication. RESULTS: This case report details the previously unrecorded and unusual migration of a fixation device through the skull into the brain and outlines its subsequent removal. CONCLUSION: Failure of bony fusion can result in micromotion and subsequent migration of fixation device components. This can occur even if the screw fixation is apparently sound. Extended routine radiographic follow-up would identify migration earlier.