Presentation
High velocity trauma.
Patient Data
Age: 55 years
Gender: Female
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Lateral cervical x-ray shows a fracture involving the pars interarticularis of C2 with a 5 mm diastasis and anterolisthesis of C2 on C3. This patient also has metallic instrumentation in the lower cervical spine. This is highly suggestive of Hangman's fracture. CT-scan is recommended to further evaluate the extent of cervical spine injuries.
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CT-scan confirms bilateral C2 pars interarticularis fracture, compatible with Hangman's fracture.
Case Discussion
Hangman's fracture is an unstable cervical spine fracture seen with trauma in hyperextension.