Usefulness of CT-like Bone Contrast MRI in the Treatment of Atlantoaxial Rotatory Fixation

CASE: Three-dimensional atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (AARF) is usually evaluated by computed tomography (CT). This report describes 3 cases of AARF that were diagnosed and treated based on CT-like bone contrast magnetic resonance imaging (CTLBC MRI) findings. Three-dimensional volume rendering CTLBC MRI scans helped with diagnosis and treatment planning. CONCLUSION: CTLBC MRI can determine the severity of dislocation and C1/C2 facet deformity in AARF and inform the treatment strategy. CTLBC MRI may reduce ionizing radiation exposure in children and merits broader evaluation. STUDY DESIGN AND LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series, Level V.