Presentation
Pain and loss of sensation in both upper limbs following trauma
Patient Data
moderate anterior displacement of C5 over the C6 vertebra is noted with intervening disc space reduction resulting in severe spinal canal stenosis and cervical cord compression
both facet joints are deformed at the C5-C6 level. The inferior articular process of C5 has jumped anteriorly over the superior articular facet of the C6 vertebra on both sides
T2WI hyperintense signal change is seen within the cervical cord at C5-C7 levels
hyperintense signal change is seen within posterior cervical soft tissues (interspinous regions) in T2WI and fluid-sensitive images
Case Discussion
Imaging features suggest bilateral facet dislocation resulting in grade II spondylolisthesis of the C5 vertebra over the C6 vertebra associated with compressive myelopathy and interspinous ligament injury.
Bilateral facet dislocation is a severe form of hyperflexion injury. It is an unstable injury and is often associated with rotational force.
Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.