traumatic atlanto-axial dislocation LSBU

Description: The atlas is displaced forward upon the atlas, leaving a 2-3mm gap between the surface of the facet joints between atlas and axis vertebrae. The ramus of mandible, which is furthest away from the film is magnified and is projected over the atlas. Both this and the related facet joint are magnified. A triangular bone density is projected anterior to the lateral mass of the axis vertebra. This is probably avulsed from the other, largely obscured less magnified lateral mass. There is a significant reduction in the vertebral canal lumen. The unfractured peg of the odontoid lies in the middle of the vertebral canal space of the atlas. The atlas appears lateral and every other structure appears rotated. An endotracheal tube can be seen.
Marked flexion force has displaced the atlas vertebra. The patient sustained a resiratory arrest and did not survive. The appearance assumes a combination of ligamentous and bony injury.