A unique approach to fixed occipito-cervico-thoracic deformity

We discuss a unique approach to a patient who presented with severe kyphosis and laterolisthesis of the cranio-cervico-thoracic spine, following a history of neck trauma 24 months prior to presentation. The patient had organized voluntary euthanasia if no treatment could be performed. Our approach included a three-part procedure over a 3-week time interval, including: initial traction, division of anterior neck muscles, multilevel anterior fusion and, finally, posterior occipito-cervico-thoracic fusion. Follow-up at 6 months revealed a patient in neutral sagittal and coronal balance of the neck.