CT of dens axis fractures.
The distinction between the different types of dens axis fracture is important. Fractures at the base of dens (Type II) may be overlooked if reformated images are not made. If the fracture extends downward into the body of the vertebra (Type III), the body fragment may rotate into the spinal canal. The rotation is difficult to see on plain films, but is easily seen at axial CT.
Nepper-Rasmussen
J
J
Department of Neuroradiology, Aarhus Kommunehospital, Denmark.
D001368:Axis, Cervical Vertebra / Q000293:injuries*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D009809:Odontoid Process / Q000293:injuries*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed