Congenitally Short Dense Causing Hypermobile Post-traumatic Atlantoaxial Dislocation in a Child: A Rare and Interesting Case Report

Abstract Injuries at the craniovertebral junction, specifically between C1 and C2, are critical due to their anatomical complexity and mobility. Traumatic atlantoaxial dislocation is rare but can lead to severe consequences, including high mortality rates due to cervicomedullary junction compression. This case report presents an unusual instance of isolated traumatic dislocation of the dense anterior to C1 vertebra in a young child, highlighting the diagnostic approach and treatment outcome. A 4-year-old boy presented with severe neck pain and restricted movement following a fall from two to three stairs. Initial examination showed stable vital signs, and radiological imaging revealed dislocation of dense anterior to the C1 vertebra. Despite the abnormal alignment, there was no observed compressive myelopathy. Post-treatment, the patient showed significant clinical improvement.