Hangman's fracture: Difference between revisions

(Text replacement - "Category:Ortho" to "Category:Orthopedics")
(Text replacement - "==Diagnosis==" to "==Evaluation==")
Line 13: Line 13:
{{Cervical spine injuries}}
{{Cervical spine injuries}}


==Diagnosis==
==Evaluation==
*Xray or CT cervical
*Xray or CT cervical



Revision as of 07:03, 25 July 2016

Background

  • Also known as traumatic spondylolisthesis
  • Is an unstable spine injury
  • Bilateral C2 pedicle fracture (leads to C2 displacing anteriorly on C3)

Clinical Features

Hangman's Fracture
  • Seen in MVA, diving accidents, but uncommonly judicial hangings (not in suicidal hangings)[1]
    • Forced extension of an already extended neck
  • Spinal cord damage is often minimal (diameter of neural canal is greatest at C2)

Differential Diagnosis

Vertebral fractures and dislocations types

Vertebral anatomy.
Numbering order of vertebrae.

Evaluation

  • Xray or CT cervical

Management

Prehospital Immobilization

See NAEMSP National Guidelines for Spinal Immobilization

Hospital

  • C-collar
  • Consult ortho or spine as needed

Disposition

  • Admit

See Also

References

  1. James, R. and Nasmyth-Jones, R. (1992) ‘The occurrence of cervical fractures in victims of judicial hanging’, Forensic Science International, 54(1), pp. 81–91