Post-traumatic Cervical Spondyloptosis Without Neurological Deficits: A Case Report

Abstract

Background and Importance: Traumatic cervical spondyloptosis is a rare and severe situation, i.e., associated with disabling neurological deficits. Case Presentation: We described an unusual clinical presentation of cervical spondyloptosis in a 49-year-old man without neurological impairment and severe neck pain. Moreover, C6-C7 spondyloptosis was assessed two days after the trauma. X-rays, Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) demonstrated a C6 bi-pedicular fracture, C6-C7 facet dislocation with complete ptosis of C6 vertebral body over C7 and without spinal cord injury. The patient was managed with an intra-operative 4 Kg traction and underwent a posterior decompression, with reduced fracture/dislocation by bilateral completed facetectomies at C6, and fusion from C4 to T3. Conclusion: This case report emphasized that sometimes cervical spondyloptosis may occur without neurological deficit symptoms. Prompt clinical recognition and surgical removal are essential to prevent serious complications in this respect.

Keywords

• cervical spondyloptosis
• neurological deficit
• spinal fusion
• spinal trauma