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Ossaba Vélez S, Sanz Canalejas L, Martínez-Checa Guiote J, Díez Tascón A, Martí de Gracia M. Cervical spine trauma. RADIOLOGIA 2023; 65 Suppl 1:S21-S31. [PMID: 37024227 DOI: 10.1016/j.rxeng.2022.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Cervical spine trauma encompasses a wide of injuries, ranging from stable, minor lesions to unstable, complex lesions that can lead to neurologic sequelae or vascular involvement. The Canadian C-Spine Rule and the NEXUS criteria aim to identify individuals with a low risk of cervical spine trauma who can safely forgo imaging tests. In high-risk patients, an imaging test is indicated. In adult patients the imaging test of choice is multidetector computed tomography. Complementary imaging tests such as CT angiography of the supra-aortic vessels and/or magnetic resonance imaging are occasionally necessary. It can be challenging for radiologists to diagnose and classify these lesions, because some of them can be subtle and difficult to detect. This paper aims to describe the most important imaging findings and the most widely used classification systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ossaba Vélez
- Sección de Radiología de Urgencias, Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.
| | - L Sanz Canalejas
- Sección de Radiología de Urgencias, Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Martínez-Checa Guiote
- Sección de Radiología de Urgencias, Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Díez Tascón
- Sección de Radiología de Urgencias, Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Martí de Gracia
- Sección de Radiología de Urgencias, Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
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Ossaba Vélez S, Sanz Canalejas L, Martínez-Checa Guiote J, Díez Tascón A, Martí de Gracia M. Traumatismo de la columna vertebral cervical. RADIOLOGIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rx.2022.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Patel J, Jenson M, Rao D. Interrelationship Between Craniocervical Dissociation Spectrum Injuries and Atlantoaxial Instability on Trauma Cervical MRI Examinations. Cureus 2022; 14:e31238. [PMID: 36514650 PMCID: PMC9733797 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Craniocervical dissociation injuries encompass a spectrum of osteoligamentous injuries between the skull base and C1-C2 that may be treated via prolonged external immobilization versus occipital cervical fusion depending on the risk of persistent craniocervical instability. However, the presence of atlantoaxial instability (AAI) at C1-C2, as determined by transverse atlantal ligament (TAL) integrity with or without a C1 fracture, may guide the neurosurgical management of craniocervical dissociation spectrum injuries (CDSI) since it implies an overall greater degree of instability at the craniocervical junction (CCJ). Materials and methods Adult trauma patients who suffered a transverse atlantal ligament injury on cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were identified retrospectively. The cervical computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging examinations for these patients were reviewed for additional traumatic findings. Demographic information, treatment, and outcome information were recorded. Results Twenty-nine trauma patients presented to the emergency department (ED) with an acute, midsubstance transverse atlantal ligament tear on cervical magnetic resonance imaging. Thirty-one percent of patients demonstrated a tear in at least one major craniocervical ligament (atlanto-occipital capsular ligaments, alar ligaments, and tectorial membrane {TM}) with 14% demonstrating a tear in two major craniocervical ligaments and no patients demonstrating a tear in all three major craniocervical ligaments. Minor craniocervical ligament injuries (anterior atlanto-occipital membrane complex {AAOMc} and posterior atlanto-occipital membrane complex {PAOMc}) were common and observed in 76% of patients. Conclusions Our study suggests that multiple major craniocervical junction ligamentous injuries on cervical magnetic resonance imaging are relatively uncommon in the setting of transverse atlantal ligament injury.
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Fiester P, Rao D, Soule E, Jenson M, Rahmathulla G. Occult craniocervical dissociation on cervical CT: an under-appreciated presentation of craniocervical trauma requiring occipital cervical fusion. Emerg Radiol 2022; 29:383-393. [PMID: 35029773 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-022-02018-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Craniocervical dissociation is a rare and life-threatening injury that results from a significant hyperflexion-hyperextension force. Occult craniocervical dissociation is defined as an unstable craniocervical injury in the absence of atlanto-occipital joint space widening or other skull base line abnormality. The early and accurate diagnosis of craniocervical dissociation is crucial since the early diagnosis and subsequent stabilization with occipital-cervical fusion has been shown to reduce neurologic morbidity and mortality. Several normative skull base lines have been developed to predict craniocervical dissociation. The purpose of our study was to measure the atlanto-occipital joint space and four other common skull base lines in patients who underwent occipital-cervical fusion for post-traumatic craniocervical instability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients who underwent occipital-cervical fusion for craniocervical injury were identified retrospectively using a keyword search of radiology reports using Nuance mPower software. The cervical CT and MRI exams for these patients were reviewed and the atlanto-occipital joint space, Powers ratio, Wackenheim line, posterior axial line, and basion dens interval were measured. Detailed descriptions of craniocervical ligament injuries on MRI were recorded along with patient demographic information, clinical history, management, and outcome. RESULTS Nine adult patients who underwent occipital-cervical fusion for an acute craniocervical injury were identified. Six patients demonstrated an atlanto-occipital joint space measuring 2 mm or less on cervical spine CT with no additional abnormality in the Powers ratio, Wackenheim line, posterior axial line, or basion-dens interval. Three patients demonstrated widening of the atlanto-occipital joint space with two patients demonstrating an abnormality in at least two additional skull base lines. Clinical outcomes were variable with nearly half of the patients demonstrating persistent neurologic deficits, including one quadriplegic patient. CONCLUSIONS A normal atlanto-occipital joint space and skull base line measurements on cervical CT demonstrated a low predictive value for detecting unstable craniocervical injuries. Occult craniocervical dissociation was present in two-thirds of patients who underwent occipital cervical fusion for acute, craniocervical trauma. A high clinical and radiologic index of suspicion for craniocervical trauma with subsequent follow-up cervical MRI to directly evaluate ligamentous integrity is necessary to accurately diagnose and triage patients with high velocity trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fiester
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Erik Soule
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA.
| | - Matthew Jenson
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Gazanfar Rahmathulla
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida College of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
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Shiraishi D, Nishimura Y, Aguirre-Carreno I, Hara M, Yoshikawa S, Eguchi K, Nagashima Y, Ito H, Haimoto S, Yamamoto Y, Ginsberg HJ, Takayasu M, Saito R. Clinical and Radiological Clues of Traumatic Craniocervical Junction Injuries Requiring Occipitocervical Fusion to Early Diagnosis. Neurospine 2022; 18:741-748. [PMID: 35000327 PMCID: PMC8752707 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2142860.430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study is to find the clinical and radiographic characteristics of traumatic craniocervical junction (CCJ) injuries requiring occipitocervical fusion (OC fusion) for early diagnosis and surgical intervention.
Methods We retrospectively reviewed 12 patients with CCJ injuries presenting to St. Michaels Hospital in Toronto who underwent OC fusion and looked into the following variables; (1) initial trauma data on emergency room arrival, (2) associated injuries, (3) imaging characteristics of computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), (4) surgical procedures, surgical complications, and neurological outcome.
Results All patients were treated as acute spinal injuries and underwent OC fusion on an emergency basis. Patients consisted of 10 males and 2 females with an average age of 47 years (range, 18–82 years). All patients sustained high-energy injuries. Three patients out of 6 patients with normal BAI (basion-axial interval) and BDI (basion-dens interval) values showed visible CCJ injuries on CT scans. However, the remaining 3 patients had no clear evidence of occipitoatlantal instability on CT scans. MRI clearly described several findings indicating occipitoatlantal instability. The 8 patients with normal values of ADI (atlantodens interval interval) demonstrated atlantoaxial instability on CT scan, however, all MRI more clearly and reliably demonstrated C1/2 facet injury and/or cruciate ligament injury.
Conclusion We advocate measures to help recognize CCJ injury at an early stage in the present study. Occipitoatlantal instability needs to be carefully investigated on MRI in addition to CT scan with special attention to facet joint and ligament integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daimon Shiraishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Inazawa Manucipal Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yusuke Nishimura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Isaac Aguirre-Carreno
- Division of Neurosurgery, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Masahito Hara
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aichi Medical University Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yoshikawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kaoru Eguchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Hiroshi Ito
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shoichi Haimoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yu Yamamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Inazawa Manucipal Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Howard J Ginsberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Inazawa Manucipal Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Masakazu Takayasu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aichi Medical University Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ryuta Saito
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
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Fiester P, Soule E, Rahmathulla G, Rao D. C1-C2 Dorsal Epidural Hematoma on Cervical Spine CT: A Novel Imaging Sign of Posterior Atlanto-Occipital Membrane Stripping Injury. Cureus 2021; 13:e19543. [PMID: 34934561 PMCID: PMC8668148 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Identify patients with a dorsal epidural hematoma at C1-C2 and examine the major craniocervical junction ligaments for injury on follow-up magnetic resonance imaging. Materials and Methods: Adult and pediatric trauma patients who suffered a dorsal epidural hematoma at C1-C2 were identified using Nuance mPower software (Nuance Communications, United States). The cervical computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging exams for these patients were reviewed for craniocervical junction osteoligamentous injuries. An age-matched control group was obtained. Results: Eight trauma patients were identified with a dorsal epidural fluid collection at C1-C2. All patients with a dorsal epidural hematoma, who underwent follow-up cervical magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a stripping injury of the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane from the C1 posterior arch with increased short tau inversion recovery signal in the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane complex. Disruption of additional major craniocervcial ligaments on magnetic resonance imaging was relatively common with the most frequently associated ligamentous injuries involving the tectorial membrane (five patients) followed by the alar ligaments and anterior altanto-occiptial membrane (four patients each). Conclusions: A C1-C2 dorsal epidural hematoma is a rare injury that may be identified on cervical spine computed tomography but may be easily overlooked by the radiologist. We propose that a C1-C2 dorsal epidural hematoma is a direct result of a significant hyperflexion-hyperextension force with subsequent stripping of the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane from the posterior C1 arch. Trauma patients with a C1-C2 dorsal epidural hematoma on cervical spine computed tomography should undergo a cervical magnetic resonance imaging examination to evaluate the integrity of the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane complex and remaining craniocervical junction ligaments for injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fiester
- Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Erik Soule
- Interventional Radiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Gazanfar Rahmathulla
- Neurological Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
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Occipital condylar avulsion fractures in the acute trauma setting: Stable or unstable injury? EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2021; 30:3128-3134. [PMID: 34338873 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-06949-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Occipital condylar avulsion fractures are considered potentially unstable, associated with craniocervical dissociation spectrum injuries, and thought to carry a relatively high mortality rate based on the current literature. The purpose of this study was to identify patient with acute, occipital condylar avulsion fractures and evaluate for the incidence of concomitant cervical osteoligamentous trauma and craniocervical dissociation spectrum injury on cervical spine CT and MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients who suffered an inferomedial occipital condylar avulsion fracture were identified retrospectively using Nuance mPower software. Cervical spine CT and MRI reports performed within 48 h for this patient cohort were then reviewed by two CAQ certified neuroradiologists. Confirmation of an occipital condylar avulsion fracture was recorded along with any concomitant craniocervical junction injury. Relevant clinical history, including management and outcomes, was recorded for each patient. RESULTS Thirty-four patients were identified with an inferomedial fracture of the occipital condyle. Of the 85% of patients who underwent cervical MRI, all but one patient demonstrated a 'negative' MRI without major craniocervical junction ligamentous injury. These patients were treated conservatively with external bracing without persistent neurologic deficits upon 4-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Inferomedial fractures of the occipital condyle are currently classified as potentially unstable fractures based on the Anderson classification system. Our data suggest that an isolated occipital condylar avulsion fracture without an additional C1-C2 fracture or widening of the atlanto-occipital joint space is likely a stable injury that can be treated conservatively with excellent clinical outcomes.
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Fiester P, Rao D, Soule E, Patel J, Jenson M. "Supradental space sign" on cervical spine CT-a sign of tectorial membrane injury in adults trauma patients. Emerg Radiol 2021; 28:903-910. [PMID: 33988749 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-021-01940-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The supradental space is a small, predominantly fat-filled recess superior to the atlanto-axial joint and inferior to the basion of the clivus that contains a small venous plexus. The posterior boundary of the supradental space is formed by the tectorial membrane, a stabilizing ligament of the craniocervical junction. The purpose of our study was to examine the imaging appearance of the supradental space in patients with tectorial membrane injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adult patients with tectorial membrane injury were identified utilizing keyword searches of radiology reports using Nuance mPower software. Age-matched positive and negative control groups were obtained. Two CAQ-certified neuroradiologists evaluated the cervical CT exams of these patients for supradental fat pad effacement from hematoma formation. The integrity of the osteoligamentous structures of the craniocervical junction was recorded on CT and MRI exams along with demographic information, clinical history, surgical management, and global outcome. Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS Sixteen adults were diagnosed with tectorial membrane injury on cervical MRI. All patients with a visible supradental space demonstrated fat pad effacement and Hounsfield units consistent with hematoma formation. The positive and negative control groups demonstrated supradental fat pad effacement in 2/16 and 1/16 patients, respectively. A p-value of < 0.001 was obtained. CONCLUSION The "supradental space sign," defined as hematoma formation in the supradental space with effacement of the supradental fat pad is associated with tectorial membrane injury in adult trauma patients with sensitivity of 93.75% (95% confidence interval 69.77 to 99.84%) and specificity of 90.62% (95% confidence interval 74.98 to 98.02%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fiester
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health-Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA.
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health-Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Erik Soule
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health-Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Jeet Patel
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health-Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Matthew Jenson
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health-Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
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Fiester P, Rahmathulla G, Haymes D, Soule E, Rao D. Proposed Grading System for Posterior Atlantooccipital Membrane Complex Injuries on Cervical Magnetic Resonance Imaging. World Neurosurg 2021; 151:e663-e671. [PMID: 33940267 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.04.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex consists of the posterior atlantooccipital membrane and posterior atlantoaxial membrane. Posttraumatic, posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injuries may have varied appearances on cervical magnetic resonance imaging. The purpose of this study was to identify the different types of posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injuries that occur in trauma patients. METHODS Patients who suffered a posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injury were identified retrospectively using key word searches of cervical magnetic resonance imaging reports between 2013 and 2020 using Nuance mPower software. All relevant imaging studies were reviewed by 2 neuroradiologists. A description of the location and type of posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injury was recorded, along with additional osteoligamentous trauma of the craniocervical junction and relevant clinical history. RESULTS Forty-one patients were identified with acute posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injury. Four distinct patterns of posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injury were observed. CONCLUSIONS A grading system for posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex injuries is proposed on the basis of these data: grade 1-edema confined to the posterior atlantooccipital and atlantoaxial membrane; grade 2-edema confined to the posterior atlantooccipital and atlantoaxial membrane and ligamentum nuchae; grade 3-stripping injury of the posterior atlantooccipital membrane with C1-C2 dorsal epidural hematoma; and grade 4-frank disruption of the posterior atlantooccipital membrane at C1 with edema in the remaining posterior atlantooccipital membrane complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fiester
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.
| | - Gazanfar Rahmathulla
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Dalys Haymes
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Erik Soule
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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Fiester P, Rao D, Soule E, Jenson M, Patel J. Tectorial Membrane Injury, Frequently Identified in Adult Trauma Patients Who Undergo Occipital-Cervical Fusion for Craniocervical Instability. Cureus 2021; 13:e14254. [PMID: 33959441 PMCID: PMC8093123 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.14254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the absence of frank craniocervical dissociation, there is a lack of consensus regarding what patterns of craniocervical junction ligamentous injuries require occipital-cervical fusion. This study was undertaken to examine the integrity of the craniocervical junction ligaments and analyze clinical outcomes in patients who underwent occipital-cervical fusion for craniocervical junction injury. Methods Adult patients requiring occipital-cervical fusion were identified retrospectively utilizing keyword searches in cervical computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging reports between 2012 and 2020 using Nuance mPower software (Nuance, Burlington, MA). The cervical magnetic resonance imaging examinations for these patients were reviewed for craniocervical ligamentous injury by two neuroradiologists. Descriptions of craniocervical junction injuries, demographic information, clinical history, surgical management, and global outcomes were recorded. Results Nine adult patients were identified with an acute, post-traumatic craniocervical junction injury requiring occipital-cervical fusion. All nine patients demonstrated a ligamentous tear in at least one of the four major craniocervical junction ligaments - the occipital condylar-C1 capsular ligaments, alar ligaments, tectorial membrane, and posterior atlantooccipital membrane. The tectorial membrane was the most commonly torn ligament followed by the alar ligament(s), posterior atlantooccipital membrane, and capsular ligament(s). There was wide variability in the number of major craniocervical junction ligaments torn, ranging from one ligament to all four ligaments. Four patients suffered persistent neurologic deficits following surgery. Conclusion Craniocervical injury is best evaluated by cervical magnetic resonance imaging. In the absence of overt craniocervical dissociation, we propose that an injury of the tectorial membrane in the adult population may indicate patients with significant craniocervical instability, possibly necessitating occipital-cervical fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fiester
- Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Erik Soule
- Interventional Radiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Matthew Jenson
- Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
| | - Jeet Patel
- Neuroradiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, USA
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Ott N, Harland A, Scaal M, König J, Bredow J, Eysel P, Müller LP, Meyer C. The role of the transversal ligament on the atlantoaxial complex - Bending forces at C1/2 flexion limits in the elderly. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2021; 84:105329. [PMID: 33765570 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2021.105329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Biomechanical functionality as well as trauma mechanisms of the atlantoaxial complex are still an issue of controversy. The transverse atlantal ligament is the strongest stabilizator. The present study aimed to analyze the bending forces of the transverse atlantal ligament and of the base of the odontoid in elderly specimens. METHODS In this biomechanical study five cadaveric specimen with a mean age of 72 at death and bone mineral density measuring for 555.3 Hounsfield units on average were used. To analyze the strain of the transverse atlantal ligament and the dense base, strain gauges were used. A custom biomechanical setup was used to test each specimen at C1/2 flexion and the strain of the transverse atlantal ligament and the dens base (μm/m) were measured. FINDINGS In four out of five, a rupture of the transverse atlantal ligament was observed, the mean force required for the ligament to fall was 175 N (min. 99.8 N; 249.2 N; SD 64.7) by a mean strain of 2102.9 μm/m (min. 1953.5 μm/m; max. 2272.3 μm/m; SD 189.7). In one specimen with the lowest Hounsfield units (155), the dens base fractured before the transverse atlantal ligament ruptured and no strain could be measured at the transversal ligament during movement afterwards. INTERPRETATION The transverse atlantal ligament fails at an average of 175 N in the elderly, which is less than the value reported previously. In osteoporotic specimen the generated force to rupture the transverse atlantal ligament can fracture the dens itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ott
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - A Harland
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Scaal
- Department of Anatomy, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - J König
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division of Spine Surgery, Schön-Kliniken Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - J Bredow
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - P Eysel
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - L P Müller
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - C Meyer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division of Spine Surgery, Schön-Kliniken Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Fiester P, Rao D, Soule E, Orallo P, Rahmathulla G. Anatomic, functional, and radiographic review of the ligaments of the craniocervical junction. JOURNAL OF CRANIOVERTEBRAL JUNCTION AND SPINE 2021; 12:4-9. [PMID: 33850375 PMCID: PMC8035576 DOI: 10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_209_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The craniocervical junction (CCJ) is a complex and unique osteoligamentous structure that balances maximum stability and protection of vital neurovascular anatomy with ample mobility and range of motion. With the increasing utilization and improved resolution of cervical magnetic resonance imaging, craniocervical injury is being more accurately defined as a spectrum of injury that ranges in severity from overt craniocervical disassociation to isolated injuries of one more of the craniocervical ligaments, which may also lead to craniocervical instability. Thus, it is vital for the radiologist and neurosurgeon to have a thorough understanding of the imaging anatomy and function of the CCJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Fiester
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Dinesh Rao
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Erik Soule
- Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Peaches Orallo
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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Chiang IC, Chuang WS, Hang IT, Kuo YT, Hsieh TJ. Benefits and pitfalls of iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation (IDEAL) imaging in clinical application of the cervical spine MR. Clin Radiol 2019; 74:78.e13-78.e21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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14
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Santos-Nunez G, Lo HS, Kotecha H, Jose J, Abayazeed A. Imaging of Spine Fractures With Emphasis on the Craniocervical Junction. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2018; 39:324-335. [DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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15
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Minja FJ, Mehta KY, Mian AY. Current Challenges in the Use of Computed Tomography and MR Imaging in Suspected Cervical Spine Trauma. Neuroimaging Clin N Am 2018; 28:483-493. [PMID: 30007757 DOI: 10.1016/j.nic.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
There is controversy regarding the optimal imaging strategy in adult blunt trauma patients for suspected cervical spine trauma. Some investigators recommend negative computed tomography (CT) alone to clear the cervical spine in adult blunt trauma patients, while others insist that MR imaging is necessary, especially among obtunded adult blunt trauma patients. CT is an excellent imaging modality for bony cervical spine injury; however, there is a nonzero rate of clinically significant cervical spine injuries missed on CT. MR imaging has high sensitivity for soft tissue cervical spine injuries, but low specificity for the rare isolated unstable ligamentous cervical spine injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank J Minja
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - Kushal Y Mehta
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Ali Y Mian
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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