Cervical Instability in the Young Adult

Os odontoideum, trauma and genetic conditions such as Down's syndrome, Morquio's disease and pseudoachondroplasia are common causes of cervical instability in the young adult. Each underlying cause presents unique challenges to the treating physician, but a systematic approach to the problem can help guide physicians and patients in developing an individualized and appropriate treatment plan. The first step in evaluating these patients is determining if the instability is associated with any neurologic findings, as almost all patients with progressive neurologic symptoms should undergo surgical stabilization.
Source: Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics - Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Source Type: research