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Age: 79

Sex: Female

Indication: Trauma

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Case #2


Findings

  • Nondisplaced left occipital condyle fracture
  • Endotracheal tube cuff inflated above the level of the vocal cords, recommend repositioning/advancement
  • Multilevel degenerative changes, worst at C5-C6 and C6-C7


Diagnosis

  • Nondisplaced left occipital condyle fracture

Sample Report

Acute nondisplaced left occipital condyle fracture. No traumatic malalignment.

Multilevel cervical spondylosis, most advanced at C5-C6 and C6-C7.

Endotracheal tube cuff is inflated above the level of the vocal cords. Recommend advancement.


Discussion

  • Occipital condyle fractures are often missed, in part because they are often nondisplaced or minimally displaced. Make sure to look closely at the condyles on all three planes (you can do this at the same time you check alignment at the craniocervical junction)
  • Remember that the alar ligaments attach to the occipital condyle. Displaced avulsion fractures are considered unstable injuries concerning for underlying ligament injury, and while you do not need to know the surgical classification schemes, make sure to mention whether or not these fractures are displaced


Images

Red arrows: nondisplaced left occipital condyle fracture. Coronal view of the major ligaments at the craniocervical junction. Occipital condyle fractures.

Video Reviews

Cervical Spine Trauma

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