Dural tear associated with a flexion distraction subluxation to the cervical spine without neurologic injury

The authors report an unusual cervical spine flexion distraction injury presenting initially without a neurologic deficit who was found during a posterior stabilization procedure to have a large dural tear with a cerebral spinal fluid leak. The occurrence of dural tears in the setting of cervical injury without severe neurologic injury has not been previously reported. Optimal management of this unusual condition is suggested and results of the treatment are provided.