American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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What is the characteristic of a C-2 odontoid type 1 fracture?

At base, unstable
Extends into body, often stable
Above base, stable
Requires fusion or halo

The correct answer is: Above base, stable

A C-2 odontoid type 1 fracture is characterized primarily by the fracture occurring at the upper part of the odontoid process (dens) and not extending into the body of the axis (C-2) vertebra itself. This location generally correlates with stability, as the fracture does not involve the crucial areas that contribute to vertebral instability. The stability of the fracture is significant because it influences management strategies. Type 1 fractures often allow for potential healing without surgical intervention, unlike fractures that are unstable or those extending into more critical areas which may require more invasive treatments like fusion or halo immobilization. Understanding the typical characteristics of C-2 fractures helps inform proper assessment and treatment, with type 1 highlighting a conservative approach in most cases.