Atlanto-occipital dislocation

Atlanto-occipital dislocation (pronunciation: /ætˌlæntoʊˌɒksɪˈpɪtəl/ dis·lo·ca·tion) is a severe and often fatal medical condition where there is dislocation between the base of the skull and the first cervical vertebra (C1), also known as the atlas.

Etymology

The term "Atlanto-occipital dislocation" is derived from the names of the two bones involved in the condition. "Atlanto-" refers to the atlas, the first cervical vertebra, named after the Greek Titan Atlas who was condemned to hold up the sky for eternity. "Occipital" refers to the occipital bone, the trapezoidal-shaped bone found at the lower-back area of the cranium (the skull). "Dislocation" is a term used in medicine to describe the displacement of a bone from its normal position.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of Atlanto-occipital dislocation can include severe neck pain, difficulty in moving the head, paralysis, and even death. Diagnosis is typically made through medical imaging such as X-ray, CT scan, or MRI.

Treatment

Treatment for Atlanto-occipital dislocation often involves surgery to stabilize the joint and prevent further injury. This is usually followed by physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility.

Related Terms

• Atlas
• Occipital bone
• Cervical vertebrae
• Dislocation
• Neck pain
• Paralysis
• Medical imaging
• X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI
• Surgery
• Physical therapy

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Atlanto-occipital dislocation
• Wikipedia's article - Atlanto-occipital dislocation

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