Intracranial erosion of an occipitocervical rod through the foramen magnum following occipitocervical fusion for retro-odontoid pannus: illustrative case.

Key Points

• The aim is to highlight the rare occurrence of intracranial erosion of a surgical rod after occipitocervical fusion.
• Reported a case of rod erosion following occipitocervical fusion.
• Emphasized the importance of meticulous rod contouring and secure cranial fixation.
• Described the role of intraoperative ultrasound for safe extraction.
• Identified erosion as a complication of occipitocervical fusion.
• Noted symptoms indicating complication included wound breakdown and posterior fossa issues.
• Emphasized the need for early postoperative surveillance.