Odontoid fracture is a type of fracture which is both suffered by adults and children. However, mortality rate is higher in adults than in children. An odontoid fracture can be accounted from the hyperflexion and hyperextension of the head. The body of the C2 is usually sheared by the force applied to it. This can be sustained when the transverse ligament moves forward, while the anterior arch of C1 bends backward. This injury can be accounted from two resisting forces but the damage can be entirely blamed to the flexion of the head.

Though odontoid fracture is both suffered by both adults and children, there seems a difference in the pathology and even with the recovery process. During a child’s development, the cartilaginous synchondrosis fuses between ages 5 and 7. In relation to odontoid fracture in children, the fracture typically occurs within this site of fusion which allows it to easily unite. However, as with odontoid fractures in older children and adults, the fracture normally occurs at the base of the odontoid process. This trauma leads to the interruption of the blood supply within this specific site which makes union impossible. An odontoid fracture is often characterized by neck pain and tenderness which is aggravated by movement. The head of the patient with odontoid fracture would often feel unstable. Dysphagia would also be most likely reported especially when retropharyngeal hematoma is noted. The presence of odontoid fracture can be detected through several diagnostic tests. This can be evaluated through radiograph studies. However, CT scan is the diagnostic test of choice to detect for the presence of odontoid fracture. A probable spinal cord injury can also be determined through an MRI. Often, surgery is the best way to repair a fractured odontoid process. The commonly performed surgical procedures are C1-C2 posterior fusion techniques and anterior odontoid screw osteosynthesis.