PMC4697204_01
Axial (a) and left paramedian sagittal (b) preoperative computed tomography of the cervical spine. Unilateral arthrosis of the left C1-C2 facet joint is shown with obliteration of the joint space and extensive osteophyte formation. The posterior osteophyte encroaches into the expected site of the left C2 dorsal ramus (black arrow)
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F1
The computed tomography (CT) of the cervical spine revealed advanced unilateral arthrosis on the left involving the C1-C2 facet joint, accompanied by significant posterior osteophytic protrusion into the left C1-C2 foramen [Figure 1].
Right (a) and left (b) paramedian sagittal T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine. The exiting C2 nerve root is severely compressed on the left, in contrast to the right (white arrows)
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F2
The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine confirmed the displaced and compressed C2 nerve root on the left side [Figure 2a], but the right side was normal [Figure 2b].
Left paramedian sagittal computed tomography of the cervical spine, 3-month postoperatively. The osteophyte complex at C1-C2 on the left has been eliminated with osseous union of the facet joint (black arrow)
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F3
Aspen cervical orthosis for 12 weeks after which it was weaned, and active neck physiotherapy was implemented. At 3-month postoperative follow-up, she remained free of her ON and neck pain with radiographic confirmation of osseous union across the C1-C2 facet joints and excellent foraminal decompression [Figure 3].