Atlantoaxial dislocation

The human cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae, with the atlas and axis referring to the first and second cervical vertebrae, respectively. Atlantoaxial dislocation is a pathological condition where the articular surfaces of the atlantoaxial joint lose their normal alignment due to trauma, congenital malformations, inflammation, or surgery, resulting in joint dysfunction and/or nerve compression. It is more common in adolescents, with main symptoms including neck pain and numbness and weakness in the limbs.