[X-ray diagnosis of cranio-vertebral anomalies]

On the basis of an analysis of the radiological data of 66 patients with craniovertebral anomalies the following forms of them were distinguished: 1) basilar impression; 2) assimilation of the atlas; 3) coarctation of the atlanto-occipital segment; 4) anomaly of the C1-dens. The main radiological signs revealed in the patients with different forms of craniovertebral anomalies with the aid of craniometric techniques and linear and angular indices are presented. The importance of tomography and myelography in the diagnosis of medullar compression and of its concomitant anomalies is emphasized, pneumomyelography being preferred against positive myelography. A combined evaluation of the neurological and radiological data permits to determine the indications for surgery of congenital craniovertebral pathology.