Basilar Invagination

Pediatric Basilar Invagination is a rare but serious congenital or developmental craniovertebral junction (CVJ) abnormality in which the top of the cervical spine pushes upward into the base of the skull. This can compress the brainstem and upper spinal cord, leading to a wide range of neurological and structural complications in children. Without timely diagnosis and expert surgical correction, this condition can lead to paralysis, breathing difficulty, or sudden death. In Bangladesh, where congenital anomalies often remain underdiagnosed in early childhood due to limited screening, early recognition and expert neurosurgical care are vital. Leading pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, Assistant Professor at the National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital, and Chief Consultant of the Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, is among the foremost experts treating Basilar Invagination in children. 🧠 What is Pediatric Basilar Invagination? Basilar Invagination occurs when the odontoid process (part of the C2 vertebra) protrudes abnormally upward into the foramen magnum, the opening at the base of the skull. In children, this condition may be: Congenital (primary) – related to birth defects such as: Chiari malformation Atlantoaxial instability (AAI) Klippel-Feil syndrome Down syndrome Morquio syndrome Secondary (acquired) – due to bone softening conditions (rickets), tuberculosis of the spine, or trauma The abnormal upward migration of the spine compresses the brainstem, spinal cord, and cranial nerves, causing serious neurological dysfunctions. 🚸 Common Symptoms in Children with Basilar Invagination In the Bangladesh context, symptoms may be subtle initially and progress over time. Common signs include: Neck pain or stiffness Recurrent headaches (especially at the back of the head) Difficulty walking or frequent falling Weakness or numbness in arms and legs Trouble swallowing or speaking Breathing difficulty or snoring Short stature or abnormal neck appearance Delayed developmental milestones Many of these symptoms are mistaken for orthopedic or ENT issues, resulting in delayed diagnosis unless assessed by a pediatric neurosurgeon. 🏥 Diagnostic Facilities for Basilar Invagination in Bangladesh Timely and accurate diagnosis is crucial. Dr. Nafaur Rahman and his team use advanced imaging modalities such as: MRI of brain and cervical spine – to assess brainstem compression and syringomyelia CT scan with 3D reconstruction – to evaluate bony abnormalities and alignment Flexion-extension X-rays – to detect dynamic instability of the craniovertebral junction These investigations are now widely available at National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS&H) and other major hospitals in Dhaka. 🔧 Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Basilar Invagination in Bangladesh In symptomatic or progressive cases, surgical correction is the definitive treatment. Procedures may include: Posterior decompression (removal of bony pressure on the brainstem) Atlantoaxial fusion with instrumentation to stabilize the spine Occipito-cervical fixation for severe instability Anterior decompression (in rare cases) if posterior approach is insufficient Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman utilizes intraoperative neuro-monitoring, 3D image-guided navigation, and pediatric-specific implants to ensure safe and effective outcomes. ✅ Outcomes and Recovery After Surgery Children undergoing successful treatment for basilar invagination often experience: Improved motor function and walking ability Relief from headaches, neck pain, and breathing issues Halt in neurological deterioration Improved quality of life and development Post-operative rehabilitation includes physical therapy, bracing, and close neurological monitoring. 👨‍⚕️ About Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman – Leading Pediatric Neurosurgeon in Bangladesh 🧠 Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, NINS&H 🏥 Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 🎓 Specialized in craniovertebral junction disorders, spinal deformities, and congenital brain malformations 🇧🇩 Operates on children from across Bangladesh including NICU, rural, and international referrals 🏆 Recognized for compassionate, safe, and evidence-based surgical practice 🌍 Serving All Regions of Bangladesh Children with suspected Basilar Invagination or unexplained weakness, breathing problems, or neck stiffness can be evaluated and treated at: 📍 National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS&H), Dhaka 📍 Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre – Premier private pediatric neurosurgical service Patients are accepted from all over Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Barisal, Mymensingh, and even internationally. 📞 For Appointment and Evaluation 📱 Serial/Consultation Booking: 📞 +8801912988182 📞 +8801607033535 🌐 Website: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com