Atlantoaxial rotary subluxation in children after trampoline injury: A critical but overlooked diagnosis

Atlanto-axial rotary subluxation (AARS) is rare but recognized as a significant cervical spine injury following a fall or physical impact on the head or neck in children aged 5–15 years. Trampoline use has been increasing among children, as have the trampoline-related injuries (TRI). We present a ca...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Vijayanth Kanagaraju, Sri Deepa Kolathupalayam Srinivasan, Sherief Elsayed, Ravi Kumar Ponnappan
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2024-12-01
Series:Journal of Craniovertebral Junction and Spine
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Online Access:https://journals.lww.com/10.4103/jcvjs.jcvjs_154_24
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Summary:Atlanto-axial rotary subluxation (AARS) is rare but recognized as a significant cervical spine injury following a fall or physical impact on the head or neck in children aged 5–15 years. Trampoline use has been increasing among children, as have the trampoline-related injuries (TRI). We present a case series of AARS following trampoline injuries, highlighting clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management, especially in an emergency setting. We report four children with an average age of 8.5 years (range 6–12 years) presented to our hospital emergency service with neck pain and torticollis following a TRI. The diagnosis was confirmed through X-ray and computed tomography imaging, revealing Fielding and Hawkins type 1 AARS. Conservative treatment with analgesics, muscle relaxants, and a cervical collar led to recovery in three cases, while one required halter cervical traction for persistent deformity. All patients recovered completely, with no long-term complications. AARS in children is largely a type 1 injury with a favorable prognosis. Early recognition and management are crucial in preventing complications. The increasing incidence of neck injuries caused by trampoline use in children necessitates strict safety regulations regarding its use.
ISSN:0974-8237
0976-9285