Fracture of the occipital condyle caused by minor trauma in child

J Pediatr Surg. 2006 Oct;41(10):1774-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2006.05.036.

Abstract

We report a case of fractured occipital condyle caused by minor trauma accompanied by light pain on palpation at the lateral cervical trigonum. A 15-year-old boy complained of nuchal pain, particularly pain on palpation at the left lateral cervical trigonum in the absence of neurologic deficits after head deceleration trauma. Computed tomography demonstrated a unilateral nonluxated fracture of the occipital condyle. Owing to consequent immobilization by means of cervical orthosis, pain disappeared after the first 48 hours. Follow-up examination 4 weeks later showed no neurologic deficits. The boy had no severe impairment of movements at the cervical spine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls
  • Adolescent
  • Craniocerebral Trauma / complications*
  • Fractures, Bone / etiology*
  • Fractures, Bone / physiopathology
  • Fractures, Bone / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neck*
  • Occipital Bone / injuries*
  • Orthotic Devices*
  • Pain / physiopathology
  • Treatment Outcome