Atlantoaxial subluxation is mainly treated with conservative treatment of immobilization and traction and surgical treatment.
1. Conservative treatment of immobilization and traction: it is mainly applicable to the treatment of mild subluxation. The main fixation methods are neck circumference fixation and head ring fixation, and the traction methods are cranial traction and Glisson’s occipitomandibular band traction. The traction position is suitable for the median position, which can effectively relieve the compression symptoms caused by subluxation, and make the atlantoaxial joint form reset or partially reset.
The weight of traction is set according to the patient’s age and physical condition, generally the weight of traction for adults should not be more than 3 kg, and the weight and direction of traction can be adjusted in time by taking radiographs and reviewing the traction, and the atlantoaxial joint can be reset after 2 to 3 days of traction. If the symptoms are serious, the traction is supplemented with neck support and head, neck and chest plaster fixation.
2. Surgical treatment: It is mainly applied to stubborn and old semi-dislocation with complete rupture of atlantoaxial transverse ligament. The purpose of surgery is to reposition the atlantoaxial joint in time and stabilize the joint. Atlantoaxial fusion is the most widely used surgical procedure in clinical practice. The window is opened in the posterior approach of the surgery, and the atlantoaxial intervertebral process is fixed with screws or the lateral atlantoaxial block or pedicle is fixed with screws.
Patients should go to regular hospitals for further examination according to their symptoms in order to choose the appropriate treatment plan.