Cervical fractures and dislocations

This page is for adult patients. For pediatric patients, see: cervical injury (peds)

Background

Sensation of cervical nerve roots
Three column concept of spinal fracture stability

Vertebral fractures and dislocations types

Vertebral anatomy.
Numbering order of vertebrae.

Clinical Features

C-spine injuries may present with

  • Rarely neurogenic shock (bradycardia, hypotension)
  • Posterior neck pain
  • Pain on palpation of spinous processes
  • Limited neck ROM with pain
  • Weakness, numbness, or paresthesias

Differential Diagnosis

Neck Trauma

Evaluation

Management

Disposition

See Also

Neck Trauma

See Also

References