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Odontoid fracture/rotatory atlantoaxial subluxation

Findings:

Type III odontoid fracture, which exhibits mild rostral and ventral displacement in relation to the position of the Axis body. The fracture extends laterally to the right-sided mass and superior articular process, involving the right transverse foramen. 

Mild rotatory atlantoaxial subluxation with asymmetry of atlantoaxial joint. There is also reduction of height of the axis body with anterior angulation and disrupted C1/C2 interspinous distance. No significant central canal stenosis.

Schmorl node is noted at the anterior endplate of C7 with consequential reduction of height of the vertebral body.

No further fractures were identified.

There are multiple large flowing osteophytes anteriorly between C4 and T1, consistent with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH).

Multilevel intervertebral osteochondrosis and bilateral osteoarthritis of the facet joints and uncovertebral joints is seen with high-grade neural exit foraminal stenosis at C4/5 and C5/6 on the right side.

Moderate calcified atheromatous plaques are seen at bilateral carotid bifurcations. There is no lymphadenopathy. The lung apices are clear.

Conclusion:

Type III odontoid fracture, with rostral and ventral displacement in relation to the position of the Axis body and traumatic right-sided spondylolysis of axis. Also, mild rotatory atlantoaxial subluxation. No significant central canal stenosis.

Updated on 12. April 2023

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About the author

Dr Sara Mohebbi is a Consultant Radiologist (Facharzt für Radiologie) with sub-specialty training in neuroradiology. She served as Chief Resident at University Hospital Freiburg and is a member of the European Society of Radiology (ESR). Her clinical focus includes demyelinating disease, neuro-oncology, and vascular neuroimaging. Dr Mohebbi is the Clinical Lead at Radiology Prime, where she provides independent second opinion reports on brain and spine MRI.