Resection of a retropharyngeal craniovertebral junction chordoma through a posterior cervical approach.

STUDY DESIGN

This illustrative case report is designed to provide technical data regarding the use of a posterior approach to resect a retropharyngeal chordoma involving the craniovertebral junction.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this report is to emphasize the utility of the posterior approach when treating anterior tumors of the craniovertebral junction.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Traditionally, a transoral transpharyngeal or extended anterior approach was used to resect anterior tumors of the craniovertebral junction. These approaches have several limitations unique to these exposures, limitations not applicable to a posterior midline cervical approach.

METHODS

A case report is provided that illustrates the use of a posterior cervical approach used to resect a retropharyngeal craniovertebral junction chordoma.

RESULTS

Gross total resection of a retropharyngeal chordoma was achieved using a posterior cervical approach. Although local tumor recurrence did occur, this was resected and adjuvant radiotherapy prescribed. This resulted in an ongoing 4-year recurrence free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The posterior cervical midline exposure could be used to dissect and remove anterior retropharyngeal tumors, with minimal morbidity.