J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  1991 Jul;20(7):568-573.

Atlanto-Axial Dislocation with Odontoid Process Fracture Associated with "Cruciate Paralysis"

• Cho MY
• Shin JH
• Choi CS
• Ju MB

Abstract

Cruciate paralysis, an unusual clinical entity, is "frequently undiagnosed or misunderstood", and can simulate the acute cervical central-cord injury syndrome. This rare injury pattern is characterized by weakness of upper extremities with little or no compromise of lower limb function following trauma to the superior cervical cord. The pattern of injury and clinical findings support selective damage to the corticospinal tract or upper motor neurons subserving upper limb function with the pyramidal decussation. Authors experience a case of curciate paralysis due to type 2 odontoid fracture and atlas dislocation.

Keyword

Cruciate paralysis; Central cord syndrome; Superior cervical cord; Pyramidal decussation

MeSH Terms

Central Cord Syndrome
Dislocations*
Lower Extremity
Motor Neurons
Odontoid Process*
Paralysis
Pyramidal Tracts
Upper Extremity