Atlanto - axial rotatory instability

ABSTRACT

Atlanto-axial rotatory subluxation was diagnosed in 13 patients. Traumatic cases has been recorded in [11] patients [84.16%] in which the rotatory instability was postulated as a result of direct trauma. Seven cases [63.63%] out of 11 cases] were diagnosed early by the aid of radiography and computed axial tomography and they were reduced spontaneously. While the remaining 4 cases [36.37%] were treated by short period of halter traction to achieved reduction and were followed by collar support. Non traumatic subluxation of the altantoaxial joint following peripharyngeal inflammation [Grisel's syndrome], were seen in 2 patients [15.48%] which has been attributed to laxity of the transverse ligament caused by inflammatory hyperemia. These [2 cases, [15.84%]] were diagnosed 10 months later and were submitted to cervical fusion in situ for instability