J Korean Soc Spine Surg.  2009 Sep;16(3):210-214. 10.4184/jkss.2009.16.3.210.

Cervical Spondylolysis with Dysplasia: A Case Report

• Park HJ
• Shim YJ
• Kim WK
• Yang JH

• KMID: 2003116
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4184/jkss.2009.16.3.210

Abstract

Cervical spondylolysis is defined as a corticated cleft between the superior and inferior articular facets of the articular pillar, which is the cervical equivalent of pars interarticularis in the lumbar spine. It is very important to avoid confusion with more clinically significant abnormalities, such as fracture or dislocation. This case report describes bilateral spondylolysis and associated dysplasia of C6. We describe the radiographic presentation of this anomaly, stressing the importance of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for a correct diagnosis. A review of the literature on this interesting abnormality and a complete differential diagnosis are presented.

Keyword

Cervical spine; Spondylolysis; Dysplasia

MeSH Terms

Diagnosis, Differential
Dislocations
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Spine
Spondylolysis

Figure

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  Fig. 1. (A) Anteroposterior radiograph of the cervical spine showing spina bifida occulta at C6. (B) Lateral radiograph revealing a well-corticated defect (arrow) between the superior and inferior articular pillars, dysplastic changes of the facet. (C, D) Flexion and extension views no evidences of instability.

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  Fig. 2. (A) Sagittal Computed tomography scan showing a well-corticated clefts at facet joint (arrow). (B) Axial computed tomography scan at the level of the pedicle of C6 revealing a well-corticated clefts (arrows) and spina bifida(arrowhead).

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  Fig. 3. (A) Sagittal T-2weighted magnetic resonance image showing a well-corticated clefts (arrow). (B) Axial T-2 weighted magnetic resonance image showing the spondylolytic defects (arrow). (C) Fat suppression image views no evidence of acute injury.

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