Abstract
ABSTRACT We reviewed 48 consecutive patients with type II (32) and type III (16), odontoid peg fractures. The clinical & radiological outcomes were assessed over an average period of follow up of 6.8 years. Union rate was determined and we discussed several factors that may affect it. Patients were treated conservatively with initial bed rest with or without cervical skeletal traction followed by bracing for an average of 9 weeks. Results: Bony union was established in 25 of 32 (78%) type II fractures. Of 7 cases with no bony union 4 were stable probably with fibrous union. 3 remained unstable. In 13 of 16 (83%) type III fractures bony union was established. 2 of the 3 with no bony union were considered stable. Osseous non-union was higher in patients with displacement of >5mm, but there is no correlation between union and age, gender or angulation of the fracture in both types. Conclusion: non-surgical management of odontoid fractures remain a viable option in the management of these fractures arabic 9 English 60