Atlantoaxial Dislocation (AAD)

Pediatric Atlantoaxial Dislocation (AAD) is a rare but serious condition affecting the upper cervical spine in children, leading to instability between the first (atlas) and second (axis) cervical vertebrae. This instability can cause compression of the spinal cord, leading to life-altering neurological deficits or even death if not treated promptly. In Bangladesh, awareness and access to specialized care for pediatric AAD are growing. Under the expert leadership of Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery at the National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS&H) and Chief Consultant at Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, many children have received timely diagnosis and undergone successful corrective surgery with excellent long-term outcomes. 🧠 What is Atlantoaxial Dislocation (AAD)? Atlantoaxial Dislocation refers to abnormal movement or misalignment between the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae at the base of the skull. In children, this condition may be congenital, traumatic, or associated with disorders like: Congenital anomalies (e.g., Os odontoideum, Down syndrome) Trauma or fall injuries Inflammatory diseases (e.g., juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) Infections like tuberculosis (TB) of the spine Genetic disorders (e.g., Morquio syndrome) If left untreated, AAD can lead to spinal cord compression, resulting in neck pain, gait disturbances, weakness, breathing difficulties, and even paralysis. 🚸 Symptoms of Pediatric AAD in the Bangladesh Context Children in Bangladesh may present with subtle or progressive symptoms, such as: Persistent neck pain or stiffness Restricted neck movement Difficulty walking or unsteady gait Tingling, numbness, or weakness in arms and legs Respiratory distress or choking spells Developmental delay due to chronic spinal cord pressure Due to limited early recognition, many cases in rural and semi-urban areas are diagnosed late, leading to worsening neurological outcomes. Timely evaluation by a trained pediatric neurosurgeon is essential. 🏥 Diagnosis and Imaging in Bangladesh Diagnosis of AAD is made using: X-rays of the cervical spine (flexion/extension views) MRI to evaluate spinal cord compression CT scan with 3D reconstruction to assess bony anomalies Dynamic imaging to detect instability during motion In Bangladesh, these investigations are available at tertiary care centers such as National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital, where Dr. Nafaur Rahman leads specialized diagnostic and surgical services for spinal disorders in children. 🛠️ Surgical Treatment of Pediatric AAD in Bangladesh Surgery is the mainstay of treatment in most symptomatic or unstable cases of AAD. The procedure often involves: Posterior cervical fusion using titanium screws and rods Decompression of the spinal cord Reduction of dislocation under intraoperative imaging In some cases, anterior approaches may be considered Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman has successfully performed numerous pediatric AAD surgeries using advanced instrumentation and neuro-monitoring, ensuring precision and safety for young patients. ✅ Outcomes and Recovery With proper surgical intervention, most children can: Regain normal walking ability Recover muscle strength and coordination Avoid further neurological decline Improve quality of life and school participation Post-operative care includes bracing, physiotherapy, and neurological monitoring. Dr. Nafaur’s team ensures continued care through follow-up clinics across Bangladesh. 👨‍⚕️ About Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman – Expert in Pediatric Spine Surgery in Bangladesh Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Specialist in pediatric spinal deformities, congenital spinal anomalies, and complex brain surgeries Widely regarded as one of the top pediatric neurosurgeons in Bangladesh Dedicated to improving pediatric neurosurgical access and outcomes across the country 🌐 Service Coverage Dr. Nafaur’s services are available to families across Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal, Mymensingh, and other parts of Bangladesh. For patients from remote areas, teleconsultation, referral coordination, and priority surgery booking are available. 📞 For Appointment or Emergency AAD Evaluation If your child has been diagnosed with Atlantoaxial Dislocation, or you notice symptoms of spinal instability or neurological weakness, don’t delay. Contact Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman today for expert consultation and treatment: 📱 Serial/Appointment Booking: 📞 +8801912988182 📞 +8801607033535 🌐 Visit: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com 📍 Locations: National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital, Dhaka Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre