Three-dimensional computed tomography in infantile atlantoaxial rotatory fixation

Abstract

Three-dimensional CT was used to examine the atlantoaxial joint of a nine-year-old girl who presented with fixed rotation of the head 3.5 months after an apparently spontaneous acute torticollis. The method provided clear, anatomical images to show the site, extent and direction of the type-I rotatory fixation (Fielding and Hawkins 1977). The 3-D reconstructions helped to guide manipulation which was successful in this late case.