Nine atlanto-occipital dislocations were found in postmortem
examinations of 112 victims of multiple trauma. Axial traction facilitated
roentgenographic identification of the injury. A hyperextension mechanism
of injury was suggested by the associated injuries, including submental
lacerations and mandibular fractures. Atlanto-occipital dislocations were
more frequent in children than in adults. A pure dislocation injury without
fracture was identified.