What Is a Cervical Fracture?
A cervical fracture, also known as a broken neck, is a type of spinal injury that occurs when one or more of the seven vertebrae in the neck (C1-C7) crack or break. This can happen due to severe trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury, which can cause the vertebrae to become misaligned, compressed, or shattered. Cervical fractures can range from stable, where the bone is cracked but still in place, to unstable, where the bone is severely broken and can cause spinal cord damage or compression.
What Causes a Cervical Fracture?
A cervical fracture can be caused by any trauma to the neck. Common causes of a broken neck include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Falls
- Diving into shallow water
- Sports-related injuries from football, ice hockey, or gymnastics
Non-trauma-related causes of cervical fractures include compression fractures from osteoporosis, arthritis, and cancer. Inflammation of the spinal cord can also cause cervical fractures.
How Is a Cervical Fracture Diagnosed?
Upon arrival at the emergency department, the patient will undergo a thorough physical assessment to evaluate neurological function, check for pain and tenderness in the neck, and assess overall stability. The doctor will also gather information regarding how the injury occurred and any associated symptoms. Imaging tests are then ordered to confirm and determine the extent of the fracture. These may include X-rays to visualize the bones, CT scans for a more detailed view of the fracture pattern and alignment, and MRI scans to assess potential spinal cord or soft tissue damage. In some cases, further testing, such as flexion-extension X-rays, may be performed to evaluate the stability of the cervical spine. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing an appropriate treatment plan and minimizing the risk of complications.
How Is a Cervical Fracture Treated?
Treatment for a cervical fracture depends on the severity and stability of the injury. In stable fractures where the spine is still aligned and the spinal cord is not compromised, immobilization with a rigid cervical collar or halo vest may be sufficient to allow the bone to heal. Unstable fractures, however, often require surgical intervention to realign the vertebrae and stabilize the spine. This may involve techniques such as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), where the damaged disc is removed, and the adjacent vertebrae are fused together using bone grafts and hardware. Posterior cervical fusion is another option, where screws and rods are used to stabilize the spine from the back. In severe cases, decompression surgery may be necessary to remove bone fragments or disc material compressing the spinal cord. Regardless of the treatment approach, patients will typically undergo a period of immobilization and rehabilitation to promote healing and restore function. Close monitoring and follow-up care at SpineCare of NY are essential to ensure the best possible outcome and prevent long-term complications.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about cervical fractures, schedule a consultation with one of our highly regarded physicians at SpineCare of NY by filling out an online contact form today. We are affiliated with HSS, the number one orthopedic hospital in the United States, and are dedicated to providing the most up-to-date surgical techniques so we can get it right the first time.
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