Fractures of the odontoid are classified into 3 types. Type II fractures, as seen in this case, are the most common. They can be subtle on axial images and are often better visualized on sagittal reformats. 

In both flexion and extension teardrop fractures, the teardrop fragment comes from the anteroinferior aspect of the vertebral body. However, in the flexion type, there is posterior displacement of the larger part of the vertebral body which can result in spinal cord injury. In extension tear drop fractures, the neck is stable when flexed but unstable in extension. However, in young patients, a high degree of trauma is required to produce this injury and hence spinal cord injury is common.

Chance fractures are most common from T11-L3 as they most often occur due to a seatbelt injury. 

Fractures of the 1^st-3^rd ribs indicates high energy trauma because a significant amount of force is required to fracture them.