Effect of C1 Single-door Laminoplasty on Symptomatic Atlas Canal Stenosis

This study investigates a surgical technique called single-door laminoplasty combined with atlantoaxial fusion to treat symptomatic atlas canal stenosis, a rare condition where the spinal canal at the top of the spine is too narrow, causing pressure on the spinal cord. The procedure involves creating a hinge on one side of the C1 vertebra (atlas) and opening it like a door to create more space for the spinal cord, while also fusing the C1 and C2 vertebrae to provide stability. The study found that this technique effectively decompresses the spinal cord, reduces instability, and provides a good foundation for bone fusion, leading to improved neurological function and reduced neck pain in patients with symptomatic atlas canal stenosis.

• 1
  Single-door laminoplasty combined with atlantoaxial fusion significantly increased the inner sagittal diameter of C1 and the space available for the spinal cord.
• 2
  The atlantoaxial fusion achieved significant reduction in the atlas-dens interval (ADI), indicating improved stability.
• 3
  Patients experienced significant improvements in neurological function, as measured by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and a reduction in neck pain and disability.