Presentation
High speed motor bike accident.
Patient Data
Impaction fracture of the left occipital condyle
Minimally comminuted nondisplaced left occipital condyle fracture extending to the atlanto-occipital articulation without joint disruption or subluxation.
Case Discussion
This case illustrates a type 1 left occipital condylar fracture. This type of fracture is produced by axial loading into the atlas, with a component of ipsilateral flexion. Although the ipsilateral alar ligament may be torn, these are considered stable fractures due to the integrity of the tectorial membrane and the preserved contralateral alar ligament. This patient was managed conservatively in a hard cervical collar for six weeks.
Case courtesy of Associate Professor Pramit Phal
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