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Atlantooccipital disassociation

Case contributed by: Dr Frank Gaillard

Presentation:

Child presenting following a motor vehicle accident

Patient Data:

Age: Child

From the case: Atlantooccipital disassociation

Lateral x-ray cervical spine

Modality: X-ray

Note the marked widening of the atlanto-occipital joint, consistent with atlantooccipital disassociation. No fractures identified.

Case Discussion:

Atlanto-occipital disassociation is usually seen in children and can be subtle on plain films, especially if one is only looking for fractures or disruption of the normal longitudinal lines.

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