Fractures of the Odontoid Process of the Axis

J Bone Joint Surg Am · 2004 · Classic · cited 1,124 times

Lewis D. Anderson, RICHARD T. DʼALONZO

Spine

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONThis classic study classifies odontoid fractures into three types and finds body fractures carry the highest risk of nonunion, often requiring spinal fusion.
Abstract, as published

Odontoid fractures were classified into three types, and, in a series of forty-nine fractures, two avulsion, thirty-two body, and fifteen basilar fractures were treated and followed for an average of twenty-two months (range, six months to nineteen years). Body fractures are most prone to non-union and surgery (spine fusion) is commonly required in this group.

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