Atlantoaxial subluxation is misalignment of the 1st and 2nd cervical vertebrae, which may occur only with neck flexion.
(See also Evaluation of Neck and Back Pain and Craniocervical Junction Abnormalities.)
Atlantoaxial subluxation can result from major trauma or can occur without trauma in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis. This disorder is very rare.
Atlantoaxial subluxation is usually asymptomatic but may cause vague neck pain, occipital headache, or occasionally intermittent (and potentially fatal) cervical spinal cord compression.
Diagnosis of Atlantoaxial Subluxation
Plain x-rays
MRI to assess the integrity of the ligaments
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Atlantoaxial subluxation is usually diagnosed with plain cervical x-rays; however, flexion views may be required to show intermittent subluxation. Views during flexion, as tolerated by the patient, show dynamic instability of the entire cervical spine. If x-rays are abnormal or if they are normal but subluxation is still suspected, MRI, which is more sensitive, should be done. MRI also provides the most sensitive evaluation of spinal cord compression and is done immediately if cord compression is suspected.
Treatment of Atlantoaxial Subluxation
Treatment of symptoms
Cervical immobilization
Surgery
Indications for treatment of atlantoaxial subluxation include pain, neurologic deficits, and potential spinal instability. Treatment includes symptomatic measures and cervical immobilization, usually beginning with a rigid cervical collar. Urgency of treatment is generally based on symptoms or presence of cord abnormalities on MRI in susceptible patients. In cases where symptoms increase or in acute traumatic injuries, surgery may be needed to stabilize the spine.
