What is craniocervical dissociation?
Craniocervical dissociation (CCD) is a highly unstable and usually fatal injury resulting from osseoligamentous disruption between the occiput and C-2.
What is the craniocervical junction?
Abstract. The craniocervical junction (CCJ) is comprised of the inferior surface of the skull, the atlas and axis, as well as muscles and connective tissues that attach the skull to the cervical spine. The CCJ encloses the central nervous system (CNS), encephalic vasculature and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) system.
What is atlanto-occipital instability?
Atlantoaxial instability (AAI) is characterized by excessive movement at the junction between the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) as a result of either a bony or ligamentous abnormality. Neurologic symptoms can occur when the spinal cord or adjacent nerve roots are involved.
Where is odontoid process found?
second cervical vertebra
Description. The odontoid process (also dens or odontoid peg) is a protuberance (process or projection) of the Axis (second cervical vertebra). It exhibits a slight constriction or neck, where it joins the main body of the vertebra.
Which joint allows us to nod?
atlanto-occipital joint
The atlas and the occipital bone form the atlanto-occipital joint, which allows neck flexion. When you nod your head as if to say “yes,” that is neck flexion. The atlas and axis form the atlanto-axial joint, which allows head rotation.
What is craniocervical disassociation?
Craniocervical disassociation (CCD) is a rare injury resulting from a significant hyperflexion-hyperextension force applied to the craniocervical junction (CCJ).[1]
Why is imaging important in the diagnosis of craniocervical artery dissection?
Because of the great diversity in the clinical features of craniocervical artery dissection, imaging plays a primary role in its diagnosis.
What is a dislocation at the craniocervical junction?
Dislocations at the craniocervical junction are grossly unstable injuries, often with significant neurologic or vascular compromise, and are frequently caused by high-speed motor vehicle collisions.
What percentage of craniocervical injuries are missed at initial imaging?
Cervical spine injuries (including up to 50% of craniocervical injuries) are frequently missed at initial imaging in survivors of high-speed accidents. This can be an important factor in subsequent morbidity, with up to one-third of affected patients experiencing later neurologic deterioration (, 5 ).