Posterior cervical fusion for trauma

Abstract

This 70-year-old lady fell from stairs and presented with an incomplete SCI at the level of C6 with MRC 3 in upper and lower extremities. CT and MR images showed a fracture-subluxation at the level of C6-C7 with facet fracture on one side and dislocation on the other (Fig. 15.1). CT images showed that the low cervical and cervicothoracic junction were ankylotic. We decided to operate on this patient immediately because of her neurologic injury. No attempt was made to reduce the fracture by traction.