Korean Journal of Spine
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Traumatic atlanto-occipital dislocation (AOD) results from high energy trauma and is an uncommon and usually fatal injury due to an injury to the cervicomedullary junction. Recently, improved prehospital management, early diagnosis and effective treatment led to increasing reports of survival. This study of patients with AOD initial imaging modalities recognizes the clinical features and diagnostic considerations for a quick diagnosis. ⋯ As for damages caused by a strong external force in patients with severe prevertebral soft tissue swelling at C2 level abnormaly, the doctor determines whether more should be carefully AOD and considers 3D CT or MRI to confirm AOD in these patients.