Second cervical vertebra (axis); features prominent odontoid process
Expansion
Cervical vertebra 2
Purpose
Odontoid fracture common after trauma; assess for instability
Clinical Context
Cervical vertebra 2 (axis): odontoid process projects from body. Odontoid fractures Type I (tip), Type II (base), Type III (extends to vertebral body). Type II highest mortality.
Related Terms
- C1
- Odontoid fracture
Key Points
- C2 odontoid fracture (Type II) common; high mortality if displaced; Type III (base of odontoid) more stable