C Spine

Question 1

What is pseudosubluxation of C2 on C3?

Answer 1

A finding where C2 appears to be displaced over C3, seen in up to 25% of children

This condition is considered normal in children but abnormal in adults.

Question 2

What is the exaggerated atlanto-dens distance?

Answer 2

A greater pre-dental space observed in 20% of children under 8 years of age

This finding indicates a larger distance between the atlas and the dens of the axis.

Question 3

What is a common finding regarding the anterior wedging of vertebral bodies in pediatric cervical spine X-rays?

Answer 3

Anterior wedging of vertebral bodies, especially at C3

This is often seen in children but is not typical in adults.

Question 4

What does the absence of lordosis indicate in pediatric cervical spine X-rays?

Answer 4

A finding where the normal curvature of the cervical spine is not present

This is considered a normal variant in children.

Question 5

What is the significance of radiolucent synchondrosis between odontoid and C2?

Answer 5

Seen in all children under 4 years and 50% of children under 10 years

This finding indicates the presence of a cartilaginous joint, which is normal in children.

Question 6

What are anterior ring apophyses of the vertebral body?

Answer 6

Growth plate structures that can be present in pediatric X-rays

These structures may be referred to as apophyses.

Question 7

What is the apical odontoid epiphysis?

Answer 7

A normal finding in children that indicates a growth center at the tip of the odontoid process

This structure is commonly seen on pediatric X-rays.

Question 8

What does vascular notching of vertebral bodies indicate?

Answer 8

A more prominent feature observed in pediatric cervical spine X-rays

This finding may be related to vascular development in children.

Question 9

How does the anterior soft tissue width vary in pediatric cervical spine X-rays?

Answer 9

It alters with head positioning and crying

This variability is a normal finding in children.