Common questions

How do you test for atlantoaxial instability?

How do you test for atlantoaxial instability?

The patient is asked to slowly flex the head performing a slight cervical nod, at the same time the examiner presses posteriorly on the patient’s forehead. A sliding motion of the head in relation to the axis indicates atlantoaxial instability.

Will an MRI show cervical instability?

Conclusions. Magnetic resonance imaging is sensitive to soft-tissue injuries of the cervical spine. When CT scanning and radiography detect no fractures or signs of instability, MR imaging does not help in determining cervical stability and may lead to unnecessary testing when not otherwise indicated.

What is the sharp-Purser test?

Introduction: The Sharp-Purser Test (SPT) is used to assess for atlantoaxial instability (AI) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The test is commonly used by clinicians; however, many experts argue it lacks reliability and validity along with concerns of safety.

Can a neck injury affect the vagus nerve?

In CCI patients, the skull is not stable on the neck. So these nerves are bound to get yanked around more, leading to irritation and vagus nerve dysfunction.

What kind of doctor do you see for cervical instability?

If you are experiencing any symptoms of cervical instability, contact your doctor or chiropractor right away. This is a manageable disorder, but only with high-quality treatment, such as physical therapy or chiropractic adjustments.

What is the sharp-Purser test used for?

The Sharp-Purser Test (SPT) is used in clinical practice to help diagnose atlantoaxial instability (AAI).

Can cervical instability be cured?

Cervical instability is a medical condition in which loose ligaments in your upper cervical spine may lead to neuronal damage and a large list of adverse symptoms. If you have cervical instability, you may be experiencing migraines, vertigo, or nausea. Fortunately, this condition is treatable, though not curable.

Who is the founder of subaxial spine trauma?

Subaxial Cervical Spine Trauma Lisa K. Cannada MD Created January 2006 Updated by Robert Morgan, MD November 2010 Learning Objectives • Articulate cervical spine instability patterns • Articulate procedure for spine “clearance” • Identify management considerations • Identify operative indications • Articulate nonoperative management methods

Which is the best definition of clinical instability?

Instability “Clinical instability is defined as the loss of the spine’s ability under physiologic loads to maintain its patterns of displacement, so as to avoid initial or additional neurologic deficits, incapacitating deformity and intractable pain.” White and Panjabi 1987 Stability

What does ROM stand for in cervical spine?

Subaxial Cervical Spine •From C3-C7 •ROM •Majority of cervical flexion •Lateral bending •Approximately 50% rotation Osseous Anatomy • Uncovertebral Joint • Lateral projections of body • Medial to vertebral artery • Facet joints • Sagittal orientation 30-45 degrees • Spinous processes • Bifid C3-5, ?