• Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
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• v.56 no.6
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• pp.530-534
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• 2021

Fractures of the dens (odontoid process) in children's cervical spine are rare, with very few case reports dealing with these injuries. In particular, a treatment modality has not been established for severe displaced fractures. Surgical fixation can theoretically afford early reduction and better maintenance, but it requires a very delicate and cautious procedure and results in permanent fusion of 1-2 cervical articulation. The authors chose conservative management for a displaced dens fracture in a two-year-old toddler and achieved a promising result. We report this case with a review of the relevant literature.