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Anterior cervical subluxation
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|August 1, 1976
Summary
Anterior subluxation of the cervical spine is frequently missed on X-rays. This injury involves severe soft-tissue damage and can lead to persistent instability, often requiring surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Anterior subluxation of the cervical spine due to flexion-rotational trauma is a diagnostic challenge.
- Radiographic under-recognition is common, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses.
Observation:
- A novel method for recognizing these subtle injuries is proposed.
- Five illustrative cases are presented to demonstrate the injury pattern.
Findings:
- These subluxations are associated with significant soft-tissue injury.
- Late-onset displacement and persistent instability can occur, resulting in varied neurological deficits.
- Surgical stabilization was required in four out of five cases.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of cervical spine subluxation is crucial for appropriate management.
- Recognizing this injury pattern can prevent long-term instability and neurological complications.
- Surgical intervention may be necessary for stabilization, unlike spontaneous fusion in complete dislocations.