Spinal Cord Transection in a Type II Odontoid Fracture From a Ground-Level Fall.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Odontoid fractures are common cervical spine injuries, particularly in older adults, with type II being most frequent.
• These fractures often result from significant trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls.
• Spinal cord transection is an uncommon complication, especially with minimal fracture displacement or ligamentous injury.

Observation:

• A case report details a patient experiencing spinal cord transection after a ground-level fall.
• The patient had an acute type II odontoid fracture.
• Radiographic imaging, including CT scans, showed no evidence of cord disruption or impingement.

Findings:

• The study highlights a rare instance of spinal cord transection associated with a type II odontoid fracture.
• The injury occurred despite the absence of significant fracture displacement, translation, or clear radiographic signs of cord compromise.
• This case challenges the typical understanding of the biomechanics and imaging correlation in odontoid fractures leading to severe neurological deficits.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering severe neurological injury even with seemingly minor radiographic findings in odontoid fractures.
• It may prompt a re-evaluation of diagnostic criteria and imaging protocols for cervical spine trauma.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind such rare but devastating injuries.