Mechanism of Injury: Hyperflexion
Hyperflexion causes compression of the anterior aspects of the vertebral bodies and posterior ligament complex distraction. This leads to:
- Chance fractures
A chance fracture is a horizontal fracture through the body, pedicle and posterior elements of the vertebrae.
- Tear drop fractures
A tear drop fracture is a fracture of the anterior superior corner of inferior vertebrae.
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- Rupture of posterior ligament
- Odontoid peg
The odontoid peg may also be fractured by sudden severe flexion.
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