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
- loss of apposition at facet joint: bilateral facet joints may be perched or locked
-
anterolisthesis can be more than 50%
- if there is a lesser amount of displacement one of the facet joints may be intact (unilateral facet joint dislocation)
- increased interspinous distance
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