An unusual injury of the cervical spine caused by a fork lift

A case of very unusual aetiology is reported. A severe traumatic injury of the cervical spine was associated with a suspended bilateral phrenic nerve paralysis, with limited sensory involvement, and weakness of the muscles of the right upper limb. The neurological status was otherwise normal, apart from slight weakness of the left upper limb. Artificial ventilation was necessary. Respiratory recovery was slow. The neural aetiology is discussed in relation to spinal cord and/or root involvement.