title: Atlanto axial rotatory fixation--a cause of torticollis.
abstract: Atlanto-axial rotatory fixation is a rare but important cause of persistent torticollis. The diagnosis is confirmed by careful radiological examination of the atlanto-axial joint, also employing tomography if necessary. Treatment is skull traction in an attempt to improve the position followed by posterior atlanto-axial fusion to prevent further, and potentially disastrous, displacement. Atlanto-axial dislocation or subluxation should be looked for in all cases of acute torticollis, when reduction by traction will most likely be successful and prevent the development of atlanto-axial rotatory fixation and the associated persistent torticollis.
mesh_terms: D001269:Atlanto-Occipital Joint / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D014103:Torticollis / Q000209:etiology*; D014143:Traction