Odontoid fracture - type 2

Case contributed by Michael Lousick
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Midline cervical spine tenderness two weeks post fall.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male

Cervical spine series

x-ray

Fracture through the odontoid process of C2 (type 2) with lateral displacement of C1. Overlying cervical spine collar noted.

ct

Displaced type 2 fracture of the odontoid process and subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint

Case Discussion

The case demonstrates a delayed presentation of an unstable type 2 odontoid process fracture. The patient was managed conservatively with immobilization.

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