Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Atlanto-occipital dislocation, orthopedic decapitation, or internal decapitation describes ligamentous separation of the spinal column from the skull base. It is possible for a human to survive such an injury; however, 70% of cases result in immediate death .
Craniocervical instability is more common in people with a connective tissue disease, including Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, [1] osteogenesis imperfecta, and rheumatoid arthritis. [2] It is frequently co-morbid with atlanto-axial joint instability, Chiari malformation , [ 3 ] or tethered spinal cord syndrome .
Atlantoaxial instability is a common asymptomatic finding in rheumatoid arthritis patients. [3] However, it can lead to cervical myelopathy . [ 4 ] Patients with atlantoaxial instability can experience neck pain and headaches in the back of the head (occipital headaches).
Surgery may be used to fix the joint and any associated bone fractures. [1] Neck movement may be reduced long after this injury. [1] Such injuries may also lead to hypermobility, which may be diagnosed with radiographs. [2] This is especially true if traction is used during treatment. [2]
The median atlanto-axial joint is sometimes considered a triple joint: [3] one between the posterior surface of the anterior arch of atlas and the front of the odontoid process; one between the anterior surface of the ligament and the back of the odontoid process; The lateral atlantoaxial joint involves the lateral mass of atlas and axis. [4]
Instability of the cervical spine can cause endangerment of patients and their neurological integrity. [28] Correction and decompression cervical spinal surgeries significantly increase quality of life and reduce symptoms. Post-surgery, 93 to 100 percent of patients report reduced cervicocranial syndrome symptoms such as neck pain. [29] [30]
Excessive laxity of the posterior transverse ligament can lead to atlantoaxial instability, a common complication in patients with Down Syndrome and Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. Laxity has also been hypothesized as the cause of degenerative hypertrophy and mechanical atlantoaxial stress. [3]
Musculoskeletal symptoms include hyperflexible joints that are unstable and prone to sprain, dislocation, subluxation, and hyperextension. [ 4 ] [ 16 ] As a result of frequent tissue injury, there can be an early onset of advanced osteoarthritis , [ 45 ] chronic degenerative joint disease, [ 45 ] swan-neck deformity of the fingers, [ 46 ] and ...