Mechanism of Injury: Hyperextension

Hyperextension damages the anterior column
This is associated with anterior fracture of the anterior inferior aspect of vertebral body
The posterior aspect of the vertebral body may be crushed with a risk of retropulsion of bony fragments or the intervertebral disc into the spinalcanal
'Hangman’s fracture': hyperextension fracture through pedicles of C2 following hyperextension with distraction or compression (click on the x-ray to enlarge). Results from judicial hanging (rather than suicidal which causes asphyxiation) or from striking chin on steering wheel in a collision