Occult Cranial Cervical Dislocation: A Case Report and Brief Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Traumatology
• Radiology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Cranial cervical dislocation (CCD) is a severe injury.
• Delayed diagnosis of CCD is linked to poorer patient outcomes.
• Occult CCD presents diagnostic challenges, potentially leading to delayed treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of occult cranial cervical dislocation.
• To highlight key clinical and radiographic findings for early CCD diagnosis.
• To emphasize the importance of prompt management to prevent neurological deterioration.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case report and literature review.
• Detailed analysis of clinical presentation and radiographic findings.
• Correlation of imaging clues with definitive diagnosis and treatment.

Main Results:

• A unique case of occult CCD was identified despite initial normal-appearing cervical spine imaging.
• Subtle radiographic indicators prompted further investigation, confirming the dislocation.
• Timely diagnosis and treatment resulted in no neurological sequelae for the patient.

Conclusions:

• A high index of suspicion for CCD is vital, especially in patients without obvious cord compromise.
• Thorough evaluation of associated fractures, soft tissue injuries, and mechanism of injury is essential.
• Accurate diagnosis and management of craniocervical junction (CCJ) injuries are critical for patient outcomes.