Atlas fracture epidemiology.

Atlas fracture classification.

mechanism

includes hyperextension, lateral compression, and axial compression

C2 spine fracture

50% have an associated spine injury

40% associated with axis fracture

Atlas fracture treatment.

Stability dependent on degree of injury and healing potential of transverse ligament.

A 4-year-old child in whom a penetrating trauma to an immature atlas led to an unusual disjunction of the posterior synchondrosis with atlas fracture displacement of the posterior “hemiarch” that plunged into the dura, resulting in a cerebrospinal fluid fistula.

Praneeth et al. discussed the possible mechanism and considerations in the management of this unique presentation. Such an atypical fracture pattern involving the posterior hemi ring of the pediatric atlas is previously unknown ¹⁾.