Traumatic atlantooccipital dislocation

A young adult sustained a traumatic atlantooccipital dislocation together with fracture-dislocation at C.4/5 level and had total neurologic deficit below C4 segment. He retained full consciousness but required respiratory support. He developed a stress ulcer with hemorrhage and evidence of "shock lung." He responded to intensive care. Surgery on the 11th day secured reduction and internal fixation at both levels. Death due to respiratory and cardiac arrest followed on the 14th day. Postmortem examination revealed edema of the brain and brainstem.