Neurofibromatosis of the lower cervical spine: an operative case report

Purpose-of the study We report a case of type 1 neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease) of the lower cervical spine in a 13-year-old girl. Case report There was no neurological deficit. Plain films showed dysplastic 82 degrees kyphosis centered on the C4-C5 disc. Surgical treatment consisted in anter ior multilevel interbody grafting and plate osteosynthesis combined with po sterior arthrodesis. Good bone fusion was obtained with acceptable cervical mobility. The residual cervical kyphosis was 18 degrees. Discussion An evaluation of the cervical spine should be proposed for patients with ne urofibromatosis even if there is no thoracic scoliosis. Severe cervical def ormities can lead to serious neurological complications. Circumferential ar throdesis appears to provide optimum results.