View source for C1 isolated posterior arch fracture

==Background==
*Stable cervical spine fracture
**Anterior arch and transverse ligament are unaffected
*Also called a Landells Atlas Type I fracture
*Rule out [[Jefferson fracture|burst fracture]]

{{Vertebral fractures and dislocations types}}

==Clinical Features==
*Due to forced neck extension

==Differential Diagnosis==
{{Blunt neck trauma DDX}}

==Diagnosis==
*Vertical fracture line through posterior arch seen on lateral x-ray
*CT test of choice to evaluate for associated fractures
*MRI can evaluate ligamentous injury (transverse ligament is primary AA junction stabilizer)

==Management==
*Hard collar for 6-12 weeks
**Neurosurgery may prefer Halo immobilization
*Prehospital Immobilization see [[EBQ:Prehospital Spine Immobilization|NAEMSP National Guidelines for Spinal Immobilization]]

==Disposition==
*Usually discharge (if truly isolated) in consultation with neurosurgery

==See Also==
*[[Cervical spine injuries]]
*[[C-Spine X-Ray]]
*[[C1 isolated anterior arch fracture]]
*[[Jefferson fracture]]

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Trauma]]
[[Category:Orthopedics]]