Cervical x-rays and the atlanto-axial region: supplementary computed tomography may be required in trauma.
In cervical trauma, x-rays may require supplementation with dynamic x-rays, computed-tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A normal cervical x-ray does not always imply cervical stability. The mechanism of injury, symptoms and signs help to indicate whether further imaging is required. We report a patient with a fracture of the atlas that was not diagnosed by plain radiology, but seen on CT.
Choi
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Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, Hampstead, London. dchoi@compuserve.com
D000328:Adult; D001270:Cervical Atlas / Q000293:injuries*; D004638:Emergency Treatment / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012865:Skiing / Q000293:injuries; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000209:etiology