Neurochirurgie
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Comparative Study
[Odontoid process fracture in elderly patients over 70 years: morbidity, handicap, and role of surgical treatment in a retrospective series of 27 cases].
Odontoid process fractures of the axis are frequent in elderly patients. However, the impact in terms of handicap and morbidity in this particular population are unknown. The role of surgical treatment remains controversial. ⋯ Odontoid fractures in the elderly are a very frequent problem. Immediate mortality is still high but appears correlated to associated lesions. Today's treatments must preserve autonomy for these patients. For elderly patients, the treatment must be chosen in relation to the fracture analysis. In our opinion, surgical management is the treatment of choice for unstable fractures (type II). Conservative management is indicated for stable fractures.
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We report a case of purely extradural spinal meningioma and discuss the potential pitfalls in differential diagnosis. ⋯ Purely extradural spinal meningiomas can mimic metastatic tumors or schwannomas. Intraoperative histology is mandatory for optimal surgical decision making.