Extension teardrop fracture cervical spine

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Face plant. Now upper cervical pain with tenderness on palpation

Patient Data

Age: 60
Gender: Female

Acute C3 fracture with prevertebral soft tissue swelling displacing the pharynx anteriorly (arrow).  No widening or compression of the posterior elements.  Facets in normal alignment.

Radiographic findings confirmed

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