Study design: A case report and review of the literature.
Objectives: To present a case of the fractures of the posterior part of the body and unilateral spinous process of the axis.
Summary of background data: A few authors have described fractures involving the body of the axis. Fractures of the posterior part of the body and unilateral spinous process of the axis are extremely rare.
Methods: A fracture of the posterior part of the body and unilateral spinous process was treated nonsurgically by a halo and a Philadelphia brace. The relevant literature was reviewed.
Results: Solid bony union was shown by plain radiographs and computed tomography. The patient was free of pain and obtained a full range of motion.
Conclusion: The presumed mechanism of injury in the fracture described here was flexion and axial rotation.