Case study 151 | Basilar Invagination | Craniocervical instability explained by Dr. Betsy Grunch

Case Study 151 - Basilar invagination Basilar invagination occurs when the top of the second vertebrae moves upward. It can cause the opening in the skull where the spinal cord passes through to the brain (the foramen magnum) to close. It also may press on the lower brainstem. If there is pressure on the lower brainstem, its first symptom may be death. Otherwise symptoms vary depending on whether the spinal cord, brain stem, nerves or their blood supply is affected by the pressure. Symptoms become apparent when the neck is bent. They include: Periods of confusion or conscious awareness that doesn't seem normal Difficulty swallowing or saying words due to loss of muscle control after damage to the nervous system (dysarthria) Dizziness Loss of sensation Pain in the back of the head Loss of the ability to know how joints are positioned Tingling or numbness in the fourth and fifth fingers Tingling or numbness in the middle part of the forearm Tingling when the neck bends forward or backward Weakness or stiff,awkward movements of the of the arms and legs Surgery is usually recommended if spinal cord compression is present. (Source: cedars-sinai.org) #sundaycasestudy #ladyspinedoc #healthcareworker #hospital #surgery #neurosurgeon #medicalschool #medstudent #medicalstudent #nursing #neckpain #rheumatoidarthritis #cranialcervicalinatability #cci #basilarinvagination