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Cervical Fracture (Broken Neck)

Cervical fractures can be very serious injuries. These fractures can result from trauma and can potentially lead to severe consequences, including paralysis or even death if not promptly and properly treated. At SpineCare of NY, our team of experienced specialists is equipped to diagnose and treat cervical fractures with the utmost care and precision, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

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.

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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.

What Our Patients Are Saying

We are dedicated to delivering expert and compassionate care at SpineCare of NY. Check out our reviews to hear the stories of our incredible patients.  

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The quality of care I received by Dr. Frank Camissa and his team at Spine Care of NY throughout my laminectomy/spine fusion process was impeccable. My experience and results have confirmed I chose the best of the world’s spine surgeons!

Lynne M.
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Dr. Hughes is an amazing spinal surgeon. He does a great physical examination along with understanding the imaging. My operation for spinal stenosis went well and I started walking the next morning and came home the day after. The office is very responsive even though VERY busy. I went from a wreck to a mobile oldster in a vet short time.

David R.
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You can’t find a better surgical facility than the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in NYC. It is state of the art for medical procedures combined with top notch doctors employing cutting edge technologies. Dr. Frank Cammisa is the best spinal surgeon in the country and a terrific and compassionate physician who takes the time to meet with you and analyze and discuss your particular situation. I can’t say enough about HSS and Dr. Cammisa and his staff.

Rudy M.
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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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SpineCare of NY is located at 523 East 72nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10021.

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