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Published on: September 8, 2023
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The odontoid process: various configuration types in MR examinations.
Evangelos Perdikakis1, Nikolaos Skoulikaris
1Department of Radiology, 412 General Military Hospital-212 Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, Terma Lefkou Pyrgou, 67100, Xanthi, Greece, perdikakis_ev@yahoo.gr.
Summary
The odontoid process (a part of the C2 vertebra) shows common morphological variants, including tip shape and longitudinal clefts, with prevalence differing by age. Further research is needed to understand the clinical significance of these variations.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Anatomy
- Orthopedics
Background:
- The odontoid process, or dens, is a critical anatomical structure at the C2 vertebra.
- Developmental anomalies of the odontoid process can impact cervical spine stability.
- Understanding morphological variants is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging appearance of the odontoid process.
- To determine the prevalence of various morphological variants of the odontoid process.
- To analyze age-related differences in odontoid process morphology.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of MR images from 133 patients (age 19-81 years).
- Classification of odontoid process morphology into Type I (pyramidal tip) and Type II (ovoid/convex tip).
- Assessment for os odontoideum, os terminale, and longitudinal clefts, with statistical analysis using Fischer's exact test.
Main Results:
- Type II morphology (59.4%) was more prevalent than Type I (40.6%).
- Longitudinal clefts were observed in 64.7% of cases, and os terminale in 18%.
- Type I morphology was more common in patients ≤30 years old (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- The study details common configurations and variants of the odontoid process.
- Significant prevalence of longitudinal clefts and os terminale was noted.
- The clinical implications of these odontoid process morphological variations require further investigation.
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