Impaired Consciousness Following Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage After Halo Vest Fixation for Odontoid Fracture

CASE: An 82-year-old woman sustained an Anderson Type II odontoid fracture after a fall and underwent halo vest fixation. Eight weeks later, she developed eyelid edema and altered consciousness. Computed tomography revealed intracranial pin penetration, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, and pneumocephalus. The halo vest was removed, and subsequent conservative treatment with bed rest and antibiotics led to full neurological recovery. CONCLUSION: This rare case of intracranial pin penetration and CSF leakage following halo vest fixation emphasizes the importance of close monitoring and early imaging in patients presenting with neurological symptoms during prolonged immobilization.