Sub-axial cervical dislocation

Abstract

A cervical dislocation injury is unstable and defined by the ligamentous complex disruption with separation of the adjacent spine vertebrae. Dislocation is used when the articular facets of the apophyseal joints are no longer in contact with each other and both inferior articular facets of the upper vertebra are locked in front of the superior articular facets of the lower vertebra. Hence, dislocation can be unilateral or bilateral accordingly. It is usually the result of combined flexion and distraction moments most commonly caused by a road traffic accident. In this review article, we have made an attempt to simplify and brief the topic and collectively presented all available recommendations for practical usage.