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Updated: Mar 5, 2026

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A Murine Model of Cervical Spinal Cord Injury to Study Post-lesional Respiratory Neuroplasticity
Published on: May 28, 2014
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'Split and splayed C3'-traumatic lateral C2-3 dislocation without neurological deficits: unique case and its
Apinderpreeet Singh1, Pravin Salunke2, Rajeev P Kamble3
1Department of Neurosurgery, PGIMER, Sector 12, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
Summary
This study details a rare lateral C2-C3 dislocation in a young male, successfully treated with surgical manipulation. Multiplanar imaging is crucial for diagnosing and planning surgical correction of such complex cervical spine injuries.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Surgery
- Traumatology
- Radiology
Background:
- Traumatic C2-C3 dislocation is rare in the lateral plane, though documented in other spinal regions.
- Multiplanar imaging is essential for diagnosing and planning treatment of complex spinal dislocations.
- The sub-axial cervical spine's anatomy typically prevents lateral dislocations.
Observation:
- A young male sustained a C3 fracture and C2-C3 lateral dislocation after a train accident.
- Imaging revealed locked facets at C2-C3 on one side and C3-C4 on the other.
- The patient presented with neck pain as the sole symptom.
Findings:
- Surgical correction was achieved through a posterior approach using distraction and rotation of lateral mass screws and rods.
- Curvilinear rods facilitated maintenance of realignment post-reduction.
- A subsequent anterior approach addressed residual lateral rotation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the successful surgical management of a rare multiplanar cervical spine dislocation.
- Accurate multiplanar radiological assessment is critical for surgical planning in such injuries.
- Preoperative MRI and CT angiography are recommended for comprehensive surgical planning.

