Delayed Presentation of Atlanto-Occipital Dislocation with Fracture of Adjoining Bone with Diagnostic Challenge: Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Atlanto-occipital dislocation with fracture (AODF) of adjoining bone is rarely reported and poses diagnostic challenge due to complex anatomy and inability of plain radiograph to diagnose it. Authors present two cases of AODF with fracture of adjoining bone with delayed presentations, including one patient with occipitalized C1. Clinical and radiological findings, causes of diagnostic delays, and surgical management are described along with a review of relevant literature.

Keywords

atlanto-occipital dislocation - cervicomedullary junction - transcondylar - far-lateral approach - traumatic dislocations

Note

Presented at the Annual Neurotrauma Conference at the All India Institute of Medical Science, New Delhi, India, August 2015.

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