Severe cervical deformity due to neurofibromatosis type 1 treated by posterior spinal fusion using a multi-rod construct: a case report.
Shota Shimizu, Masashi Uehara, Shota Ikegami et al.
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Case in brief
A 39-year-old man with neurofibromatosis type 1 was airlifted with neck pain and paralysis of both upper extremities. Radiographs and CT showed severe cervical deformity, including anterior displacement of the C5 vertebral body. He underwent C4–C6 laminectomy and C2–T2 posterior fixation with autologous bone grafting, using cobalt-chromium rods reinforced by accessory rods. No surgery-related adverse events were recorded. At 2 years, radiographs and CT confirmed bone fusion, with no noticeable loss of correction.
What made this case unusual
The severe NF-1-associated cervical deformity included anterior displacement of C5 and was treated with a reinforced multi-rod posterior construct.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
In severe NF-1-associated cervical deformity, imaging can define substantial vertebral displacement; this case illustrates successful fusion with posterior fixation reinforced by accessory rods.
Why it matters
The report offers a potential surgical option in a setting where the authors note that generally recognized strategies for NF-1-related cervical deformity are lacking.