Non-union rate of type II and III odontoid fractures in CPPD versus a control population.

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to determine if there is a significant difference between rates of non-union of type II and III odontoid fractures in patients with calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition (CPPD) compared with a control population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 10-year retrospective picture archive and communications system review was performed of 31 CPPD patients and 31 control patients. Imaging studies were reviewed for radiographic or CT evidence of osseous union and complications.

RESULTS: There was a significant difference in the rates of non-union between the two groups, with the non-union rate reaching 90.3% in the CPPD group and 32% in the control group. Comparing the degree of displacement and angulation of the two groups did not show a significant difference.

CONCLUSION: The results indicate that odontoid fracture non-union rates are significantly higher in CPPD patients and should be taken into consideration when diagnosing odontoid fractures and deciding on appropriate treatment.