1.
Radiology
; 153(2): 353-6, 1984 Nov.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-6484166
ABSTRACT
Dens fractures are frequently difficult to identify radiographically, particularly when it is only possible to obtain a lateral radiograph of the upper cervical spine. Further, when a dens fracture is identified in lateral projection, it is often difficult to distinguish the "high" (Type II) from the "low" (Type III) fracture. The authors describe an elongated "ring" density superimposed upon the body of the axis in the lateral cervical radiograph which, when horizontally disrupted, indicates a dens fracture and is a specific radiographic sign of the "low" variety.