Cervical Spine Injury

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Mechanism of Injury: Flexion and Rotation

  • 50%-80% of cervical spine injuries are caused by this mechanism as are most thoracolumbar injuries
  • This mechanism causes disruption of the posterior ligament complex and the posterior column
  • The facet joints, lamina, transverse processes, and vertebral bodies may fracture
  • Relatively flat facet joints may dislocate without fracture
  • Spinous processes of C6/7 can also be avulsed by interspinous ligaments – the so-called 'clay-shovellers fracture'
  • All intervertebral ligaments may tear and the upper vertebral body can be displaced relative to the one below