title: Traumatic complex dislocation of the atlanto-axial joint with odontoid and C2 superior articular facet fracture.
abstract: METHODS
  Case report and clinical discussion.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  We intend to report a unique case of a atlantoaxial dislocation with a odontoid and C2 superior articular facet fracture.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Traumatic dislocation of the atlantoaxial joint in combination with a C2 fracture is a rare injury. Only 5 cases have been reported in the literature.
  
  
  METHODS
  We present a case of a 43-year-old man with a primary atlantoaxial complex dislocation associated with an odontoid and comminuted C2 superior articular facet fracture with complete recovery of an accompanying hemiplegia after reduction.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The patient underwent gentle traction with a halo frame until a complete reduction was achieved within 3 days, after which a vest was installed. His neurologic status improved to a slight weakness of the right shoulder in abduction (Grade 4/5) after 4 months and his C2 fracture healed in an acceptable position.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  To our knowledge, this is the first case of a traumatic atlantoaxial rotatory dislocation with accompanying odontoid and C2 superior articular facet fracture.
authors.affiliation: St Elisabeth Hospital Tilburg, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hilvarenbeekseweg, GC Tilburg. andyspoor@gmail.com
authors.forename: Andy B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Spoor
authors.forename: Carel H
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Diekerhof
authors.forename: Michel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bonnet
authors.forename: F Cumhur
authors.initials: FC
authors.lastname: Oner