Radiology Resident Case of the Week: August 25, 1995

Jefferson Fracture

Akira Fujikawa, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Clinical Sx:
21y/o, s/p MVA

Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Jefferson fractures result from an axial compressive force applied to the skull with the head erect.

Pathology:
Nothing

Miscellaneous:
Nothing

Imaging:

The lateral view demonstrates radiolucent line in posterior arc of C1. Atlanto-axial distance measures 6mm. The open-mouth radiograph shows bony fragment to the left of the odontoid process. There is no offset in the position of the lateral borders of the lateral masses of the atlas and axis. CT demonstrates C1 fracture involving left anterior arc and right posterior arc. Small fragment is noted postero medially to the fracture site of anterior arc.

DDx:
nothing

Key References:
Resnick; Bone and joint disease.

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See related Provider Topics Bones, Joints and Muscles, Fractures or Injuries and Wounds.

See related Patient Topics Bones, Joints and Muscles, Fractures or Injuries and Wounds.

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