Odontoid synchondral fractures are considered the most common type of fracture, amounting TO 10% of all subaxial injuries in the under 7 demographic. This injury occurs as typically the result of hyperflexion. Most odontoid fractures in children below 7 years of age involves the odontoid synchondrosis

The following is a report of the management of paediatric synchondral fractures in 2 patients who presented to the Children's Hospital Westmead in 2010. Both patients had displaced synchondral odontoid fractures which were managed by indirect reduction and halo traction.

In both patients an anatomical alignment was achieved and maintained. Follow-up was 6 and 9 months respectively and the patients were assessed both clinically and radiologically.

We feel the use of the “double mattress” technique is a valuable tool, as a means of achieving and maintaining occipitocervical extension, necessary, in the treatment of odontoid synchondral fractures.