Chamberlain Line

Chamberlain Line 

Chamberlain line is a radiology measurement near where the spinal cord connects to the brain and used to rule out basilar invagination.  Radiologists use this line to measure the position of the dens of C2 .  Normally, the tip of the dens should be at or just below the Chamberlain line.  If the dens sticks above the Chamberlain line, usually more than 3 millimeters, it suggests a condition called basilar invagination.

Basilar invagination is a condition where the top of the spine pushes up into the skull, which can put pressure on the brainstem and spinal cord.