Hangman's fracture: Difference between revisions

(Created page with "==Background== *Also known as traumatic spondylolisthesis *Is an unstable spine injury *Bilateral C2 pedicle fracture (leads to C2 displacing ante...")
 
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==Clinical Features==
==Clinical Features==
[[File:Hangman fracture.png|thumb|Hangman's Fracture]]
*Seen in MVA and diving accidents (not in suicidal hangings)
*Seen in MVA and diving accidents (not in suicidal hangings)
**Forced extension of an already extended neck  
**Forced extension of an already extended neck  
*Spinal cord damage is often minimal (diameter of neural canal is greatest at C2)
*Spinal cord damage is often minimal (diameter of neural canal is greatest at C2)
===Diagnosis===
[[File:Hangman fracture.png|thumb|Hangman's Fracture]]


==Differential Diagnosis==
==Differential Diagnosis==

Revision as of 04:24, 2 January 2015

Background

  • Also known as traumatic spondylolisthesis
  • Is an unstable spine injury
  • Bilateral C2 pedicle fracture (leads to C2 displacing anteriorly on C3)

Clinical Features

Hangman's Fracture
  • Seen in MVA and diving accidents (not in suicidal hangings)
    • Forced extension of an already extended neck
  • Spinal cord damage is often minimal (diameter of neural canal is greatest at C2)

Differential Diagnosis

Vertebral fractures and dislocations types

Vertebral anatomy.
Numbering order of vertebrae.

Workup

Management

Prehospital Immobilization

See NAEMSP National Guidelines for Spinal Immobilization

Hospital

  • C-collar
  • Consult ortho or spine as needed

Disposition

  • Admit

See Also