Noninvasive management of an odontoid process fracture in a toddler: case report

Study Design Case report. Objective Odontoid process fractures represent an uncommon injury in small children, with their optimal management remaining unclear. We present a case of conservatively managed displaced type 2 odontoid process fracture in a small child. Methods We analyzed clinical and radiographic outcomes of a restrained 2-year-old girl involved in a motor vehicle accident who sustained a displaced type 2 odontoid process fracture and was treated conservatively in a semirigid Aspen collar. Results The fracture progressively healed with callus formation evident at 6 weeks. By 12 weeks, the patient was asymptomatic and had regained head control and a full range of movement. Radiographic remodeling of the fracture was seen to improve over the 6-month follow-up. Conclusion This case illustrates that displaced type 2 odontoid process fractures can be successfully managed conservatively in small children.