Chronic Atlantoaxial Rotatory Subluxation in an Adult Following a Traumatic Event: A Case Report

Overview

Journal Int J Spine Surg

Date 2020 Sep 28

PMID 32986568

Citations 5

Authors

Cameron Kia

Scott Mallozzi

Isaac Moss

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Traumatic rotatory subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint is a rare but potentially life-threatening injury in adults. While acute cases have been shown to be managed successfully with closed reduction, chronic injuries in skeletally mature patients have rarely been reported.

Methods: We present management of a 64-year-old female who presents 2.5 years after a traumatic cervical injury with neck pain and torticollis. Imaging revealed rotatory subluxation of C1-C2 without cord impingement. A focused appraisal of the reported literature was also performed.

Results: Successful reduction was achieved with halo cervical traction, followed by definitive treatment with atlantoaxial arthrodesis.

Conclusions: Cases of fixed, chronic C1-C2 rotatory subluxation after traumatic etiology may be amenable to closed reduction with skeletal traction and fusion.

Level Of Evidence: 4.

Clinical Relevance: Chronic, post-traumatic atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation in the adult population is extremely rare, without a well-described treatment algorithm. The purpose of this case report is to highlight the reduction and fixation of someone with this injury.

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