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Cervical spondylolysis. Report of two cases
M A Hinton1, M B Harris, A G King
1Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans.
Spine
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Cervical spondylolysis, a defect in the cervical spine, can present subtly after trauma. Prompt diagnosis via radiography is crucial for identifying spinal cord compromise and determining appropriate treatment, ranging from observation to surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Cervical spondylolysis, a defect in the pars interarticularis of the cervical spine, is uncommon.
- It is often discovered incidentally following trauma.
Observation:
- Two cases of cervical spondylolysis are presented.
- Both patients experienced trauma, leading to radiographic examination.
- Presentations ranged from transient quadriplegia to isolated neck pain.
Findings:
- Radiographic evaluation revealed significant spinal cord compromise in one patient.
- This patient ultimately required surgical decompression and fusion.
- The second patient's cervical spine was stable and without cord compromise on dynamic imaging.
Implications:
- Cervical spondylolysis can lead to severe neurological deficits.
- Early radiographic detection is vital for assessing spinal stability and cord involvement.
- Treatment strategies should be individualized based on imaging findings and clinical presentation.