title: The fate of missed atlanto-axial rotatory subluxation in children.
abstract: Torticollis in children can be due to atlanto-axial rotatory subluxation. If diagnosis, based on plain lateral radiography and on computed tomography, and specific treatment are delayed, reduction becomes difficult to accomplish. Atlanto-axial fusion might be indicated to cure the instability. Thus, a diagnostic delay may prevent restoration of cervical spine function. In acquired torticollis in children, radiographic evaluation is indicated if the symptoms are not relieved within 1 week, but immediate radiography is indicated in traumatic torticollis.
authors.affiliation: Unfallkrankenhaus, Klagenfurt, Austria.
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Schwarz
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D013123:Spinal Fusion; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D014103:Torticollis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*