Atlantoaxial Instability — Pediatric & RA
Causes: congenital anomalies (Down syndrome), os odontoideum, trauma, and rheumatoid arthritis with transverse ligament incompetence. Measure atlantodental interval (ADI): >3 mm in adults or >5 mm in children suggests instability; consider dynamic flexion–extension views. Symptoms: neck pain, myelopathy signs, vertebrobasilar symptoms; intubation risks in RA. Surgery: posterior C1–C2 fusion (Goel‑Harms C1 lateral mass–C2 pedicle/pars screws) ± transarticular screws; consider odontoidectomy for i...
Practised by MCQ
10What is the normal range for the atlanto-dental interval (ADI) in children, indicating stability at the atlant...
mcqWhich of the following conditions is most commonly associated with atlantoaxial instability due to ligamentous...
mcqIn patients with rheumatoid arthritis, what is the mechanism that most commonly leads to atlantoaxial instabil...
mcqWhich surgical procedure is typically performed for atlantoaxial instability in pediatric patients?
mcqWhat is a significant risk factor for intubation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and atlantoaxial instab...
mcqWhich imaging modality is most useful for assessing dynamic instability at the atlantoaxial joint?
mcqWhat is the primary static stabilizer of the atlantoaxial joint?
mcqWhich of the following symptoms is least likely to be associated with atlantoaxial instability?
mcqWhat is the significance of the 'buffer zone' described in Steel's rule of thirds regarding the atlantoaxial r...
mcqIn the context of atlantoaxial instability, what is the role of odontoidectomy?