[Fractures of the cervical spine]

Due to the high incidence of concomitant neurological lesions, standardized clinical and radiologic diagnostic procedures in cervical spine injuries are mandatory. Magnetic resonance imaging or a stress X-ray should be performed when discoligamentous injuries are suspected. The three most important pillars in the treatment of cervical spine injuries are the surgical indication, the surgical approach and the choice of implant. However, despite prompt and appropriate therapy many of these injuries lead to permanent functional impairment depending on the type of fracture. This article summarizes the most frequent fracture types of the cervical spine, as well as the corresponding therapeutic options and outcome.