Pseudospread of the atlas: false sign of Jefferson fracture in young children
Jefferson fractures are rare prior to teen-age. Three young children examined after trauma exhibited the characteristic spread appearance of the atlas, but fractures were excluded radiographically and clinically. A retrospective study demonstrated a similar appearance, termed pseudospread, in most children aged 3 months to 4 years, including over 90% during the second year. Pseudospread results from a discrepancy between the neural growth pattern of the atlas and the somatic pattern of the axis. An atlas spread index is defined and a normal range presented. When an atlas fracture is suggested by apparent lateral spread of the lateral atlas masses, computed tomography is useful to demonstrate an intact atlas ring.
- Research Organization:
- Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, Bronx, NY
- OSTI ID:
- 5748165
- Journal Information:
- AJR, Am. J. Roentgenol.; (United States), Vol. 140:6; Conference: Annual meeting of the American Roentgen Ray Society, San Francisco, CA, USA, Mar 1981
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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