Korean J Neurotrauma.  2013 Apr;9(1):27-29. 10.13004/kjnt.2013.9.1.27.

Combined Atlantoaxial Rotatory Fixation and Unilateral Counter Occipitoatlantal Subluxation after Minor Trauma

• Lee SH
• Cha JH
• Song JS
• Heo W

• KMID: 1427760
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.13004/kjnt.2013.9.1.27

Abstract

Rotatory fixation of the atlantoaxial joint is relatively rare in adults but somewhat more common in children. Most of them are reduced spontaneously or after traction. However, combined rotatory injury of atlantoaxial joint and unilateral occipitoatlantal subluxation is a rare disease, and it is often difficult to diagnose accurately. Because the craniovertebral junction is complex and patients with combined atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (AARF) and occipitoatlantal subluxation has a less rotated head than patients with pure AARF. And injury of the occipitoatlantal and atlantoaxial joint can often result upper cervical instability, so early diagnosis is very important. We present a case of the combined AARF and unilateral counter occipitoatlantal subluxation after minor trauma.

Keyword

Atlantoaxial rotatory fixation; Occipitoatlantal dislocation; Arthrodesis

MeSH Terms

Adult
Arthrodesis
Atlanto-Axial Joint
Child
Early Diagnosis
Head
Humans
Organothiophosphorus Compounds
Rare Diseases
Traction
Organothiophosphorus Compounds