Burst Fracture of C5 with Traumatic Anterior Spondyloptosis of C6 and Posterior Spondylolisthesis of C4 Vertebra: A Case Report

Abstract

Burst fracture of C5 with traumatic anterior spondyloptosis of C6 and posterior spondylolisthesis of C4 vertebra is an exceedingly rare high energy injury. Treatment includes decompression, reduction, stabilization, and fusion via anterior or posterior or combined anterior-posterior approach with or without prior traction. We report this rare subaxial cervical spine injury associated with quadriplegia managed with combined anterior and posterior instrumented fusion. A multidisciplinary approach with preoperative assessment and planning is crucial in managing cervical spine injury. Immediate postoperative critical care support, rehabilitation, and dedicated nursing care are required for a favorable outcome in traumatic quadriplegia.

Keywords

• cervical vertebrae; injury; spondylolisthesis.