To determine the normal values and usefulness of the C1/4 space
available for spinal cord (SAC) ratio and C1 inclination angle,
which are new radiological parameters for assessing atlantoaxial
instability in children with Down syndrome. We recruited 272 children with Down syndrome (including 14 who
underwent surgical treatment), and 141 children in the control group.
All were aged between two and 11 years. The C1/4 SAC ratio, C1 inclination
angle, atlas-dens interval (ADI), and SAC were measured in those
with Down syndrome, and the C1/4 SAC ratio and C1 inclination angle
were measured in the control group.Aims
Patients and Methods
Although atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (AARF) is a common cause
of torticollis in children, the diagnosis may be delayed. The condition
is characterised by a lack of rotation at the atlantoaxial joint
which becomes fixed in a rotated and subluxed position. The management of
children with a delayed presentation of this condition is controversial.
This is a retrospective study of a group of such children. Children who were admitted to two institutions between 1988 and
2014 with a diagnosis of AARF were included. We identified 12 children
(four boys, eight girls), with a mean age of 7.3 years (1.5 to 13.4),
in whom the duration of symptoms on presentation was at least four weeks
(four to 39). All were treated with halo traction followed by a
period of cervical immobilisation in a halo vest or a Minerva jacket.
We describe a simple modification to the halo traction that allows
the child to move their head whilst maintaining traction. The mean follow-up
was 59.6 weeks (24 to 156).Aims
Patients and Methods
