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Hyperextension dislocation of the cervical spine
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|April 1, 1986
Summary
Hyperextension dislocation of the cervical spine can present subtle radiographic signs. Look for prevertebral soft-tissue widening with normally aligned vertebrae, often accompanied by facial trauma and central cervical spinal cord syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Hyperextension dislocation of the cervical spine is a severe injury.
- Radiographic diagnosis can be challenging due to subtle findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe hyperextension dislocation of the cervical spine.
- To illustrate the subtle radiographic features of this injury.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of lateral cervical spine radiographs in 20 patients.
- Correlation of radiographic findings with clinical presentation.
Main Results:
- All patients showed diffuse prevertebral soft-tissue widening and normally aligned vertebrae.
- In 30% of cases, this was the only radiographic sign.
- Specific indicators of dislocation level included avulsion fracture fragments (65%), vacuum defects (15%), widened intervertebral disk spaces (15%), and spinous process fractures (5%).
Conclusions:
- Diffuse prevertebral soft-tissue widening with normally aligned vertebrae is a key radiographic indicator of hyperextension cervical spine dislocation.
- Associated findings like avulsion fractures aid in pinpointing the exact level of injury.
- Clinical presentation often includes facial trauma and acute central cervical spinal cord syndrome.