Skull-c2 fusion in rheumatoid patients with atlanto-axial subluxation.

Four rheumatoid arthritis patients with displacement of the atlanto-axial joint were treated by skull-C2 fusion, with iliac bone graft. Fusion of the skull to C2 is recommended in rheumatoid patients with sublaxation at C1-C2 because it prevents not only further deformity but also danger of cord compression and symptomatic relapse. All four patients have remained symptom-free after surgery. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.