title: A rational approach to burst fractures of the atlas.
abstract: The stability of a burst fracture of the atlas (Jefferson's fracture) should be determined in order to decide upon the appropriate treatment. Unstable fractures include those with a rupture of the transverse ligament, or those in which union has been incomplete despite treatment. An occiput-to-C2 or in atlantoaxial arthrodesis may be indicated.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001174:Arthrodesis; D001270:Cervical Atlas / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008022:Ligaments; D008297:Male; D013123:Spinal Fusion; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000601:surgery