Bilateral facet dislocation

Last revised by Yahya Baba on 1 Nov 2021

A bilateral facet dislocation is an unstable flexion distraction type of dislocation of the cervical spine, often a result of buckling force. Occasionally, the bilateral facet dislocation has been named a 'doubly-locked' vertebral injury giving the impression of stability. However, due to complete ligamentous disruption, this is, in fact, an unstable injury 1.  

Pathology

Mechanism

It has been thought to result from hyperflexion, however, recent studies suggest a buckling force to be the cause 2.

Radiographic features

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