C2-fractures: part I. Quantitative morphology of the C2 vertebra is a prerequisite for the radiographic assessment of posttraumatic C2-alignment and the investigation of clinical outcomes.

Pertinent literature exists concerning indications, techniques, complications of treatment, and risk factors for nonunion in axis and odontoid fractures; however, there are scarce data regarding the incidence and definition of malunion in these fractures. As a prerequisite for the study of anatomical alignment following surgical and nonsurgical treatment of C2-fractures, an understanding of normal C2 anatomy is essential. Therefore, the authors intended to evaluate morphometrical dimensions of the C2 vertebra.