Multiple fractures of the axis

Orthopedics. 2004 Oct;27(10):1096-9. doi: 10.3928/0147-7447-20041001-21.

Abstract

Multiple fractures of the axis are not common lesions. A retrospective study was performed to identify the different fracture patterns and to analyze the incidence of these injuries and their long-term behavior. The medical records of 674 consecutive patients with fractures of the cervical spine were reviewed. Nine (1%) of 674 patients (6 men and 3 women) had multiple fractures of the axis. Mean patient age was 48 years. The most common lesion was a combination of traumatic spondylolisthesis with either an odontoid process or a teardrop fracture of the axis body. All patients were treated conservatively with an excellent or good outcome at mean 12-year follow-up (range: 2-18 years). Computed tomography was the imaging modality of choice for the correct diagnosis of these rare lesions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Axis, Cervical Vertebra / diagnostic imaging
  • Axis, Cervical Vertebra / injuries*
  • Female
  • Fracture Fixation / methods*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Spinal Fractures / diagnostic imaging*
  • Spinal Fractures / epidemiology
  • Spinal Fractures / therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Traction / methods
  • Treatment Outcome