Role of Patient-Specific 3D-Printed Models for Complex Pediatric Craniocervical Junction Surgery: Case Description and Systematic Literature Review

Background: Pediatric craniocervical junction (CCJ) anomalies consist of a unique subset of anatomically complex spine conditions. The aims of intervention are to achieve long-term stability, correct existing deformity, and prevent neurological compromise. However, surgery is challenging due to critical neurovascular and musculoskeletal structures in the limited operative space of a young child. Recently, the use of three-dimensional (3D) printed models has been demonstrated to be valuable neurosurgical adjuncts. We therein report the application of a 3D-printed model for a pediatric case with a complex CCJ condition. A systematic review of the related literature is concurrently performed. Case description: A 10-year-old male presented with torticollis associated with neck pain and progressive thoracic kyphosis. Neuroimaging reported an unfused os odontoideum inferior to the basion and anterior half of the C2 vertebral body and anteriorly angulated with the C1 anterior arch. Of note, there was a large vertebral vein coursing over the left C2 lamina that was predominantly draining into the CCJ venous plexus. A radiologically derived 3D model of the patient’s CCJ was printed and used for pre-operative planning, multi-disciplinary team discussion, and detailed counseling with the patient and caregivers. The patient underwent an uneventful C1–C2 posterior screw fixation and has recovered well since. Separately, we observed there is a paucity of publications specific to this topic. Conclusions: As demonstrated, a custom-made 3D model was useful for clinicians work through technical difficulties and improve the perioperative discussion process in an otherwise difficult case.