title: [Fractures of the odontoid process of the axis].
abstract: Analysis of 15 cases of fracture of the odontoid process of the axis, with a follow-up time of 18 months to 9 years. In 6 cases (40 p. 100) the diagnosis of the fracture was made with a delay extending from one week to 3 months after the accident. The only case complicated with neurological findings was a fracture of the dens without radiological displacement. All patients have been treated conservatively. Twelve fractures united after 4 to 6 months immobilisation. In two cases a tight and stable non-union has developed. In only one case the pseudarthrosis was loose and unstable, and required a surgical fusion. The functional result was dominated by a restriction of movements of the head, variable in its importance, but practically constant.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001368:Axis, Cervical Vertebra / Q000293:injuries*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D013123:Spinal Fusion; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D013997:Time Factors
vernacular_title: Fractures de l'apophyse odontoïde de l'axis