Conservative management of pyogenic osteomyelitis of the occipitocervical junction

Abstract

Study design: A report of three cases of pyogenic osteomyelitis of the occipitocervical junction.

Objective: To describe the conservative management of pyogenic osteomyelitis of the occipitocervical junction.

Summary of background data: The therapeutic approach to inflammation of the upper cervical spine is controversial.

Methods: Pyogenic osteomyelitis of the occipitocervical junction is rare. In the orthopedic literature, only a few case reports with variable treatment methods are available. Three patients with pyogenic osteomyelitis of the occipitocervical junction were treated nonoperatively. Intravenous antibiotic therapy was begun after direct cultures or blood cultures were obtained. Early mobilization was accomplished by application of a halo vest.

Results: Two patients recovered by spontaneous fusion of the occipitocervical junction. Instability developed in the spine of one patient, but she refused further treatment.

Conclusions: Diagnosis of osteomyelitis of the upper cervical spine is difficult. In cases with absence of neurologic symptoms or spinal abscess formation, treatment can be nonoperative.