Cervical fractures: When to interfere?

Congress:

ECR 2018

Poster Number:

C-2571

Type:

Educational Exhibit

Keywords:

Computer Applications-3D, Image manipulation / Reconstruction, Digital radiography, CT, Trauma, Emergency, Bones, Computer Applications-General, Computer Applications-Detection, diagnosis, Athletic injuries, Artifacts

Authors:

A. Mugahid, P. M. A. D. Mohamed Abouelhoda, R. A. M. A. Helal, M. A. Abo El Ela, A. H. A. H. Ibrahim, M. M. M. Ashour, A. M. A. Farag, S. Mohamed, M. A. M. Ayoub; Cairo/EG

DOI:

10.1594/ecr2018/C-2571

DOI-Link:

https://dx.doi.org/10.1594/ecr2018/C-2571

Learning objectives

- Understanding cervical spine anatomy. - Understanding normal anatomical variants. - Illustrating types of cervical fractures with their CT appearance. - Learning striking CT signs warranting intervention

Background

Cervical fractures are usually caused by sudden forceful impact leading to variable degrees of trauma, ranging from minor stable injuries to unstable ones that can be complicated by neurological compromise. Differentiating types of cervical injuries and classifying them according to severity is the first step in proper management of the patient which can save the patient from unnecessary complications. Clinical examination for cervical fractures has low sensitivity of 46%, and so accurate radiological diagnosis is mandatory, CT having the upper hand.

Findings and procedure details

Normal Anatomy: The cervical spine contains 7 vertebrae. The first two of them are unique and have special names; the atlas and the axisFig. 1 C3-C7 are mostly classic vertebrae with slight differences Fig. 2 Cervical spine columns: In general the vertebral columncan be divided into 3 distinct columns: anterior, middle, and posterior. The anterior column: The anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) and the anterior two thirds of the vertebral bodies The annulus fibrosus The intervertebral discs. The middle column: The posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) and...

Conclusion

Radiologically classifying cervical fractures according to stability can foresee neurological complications and save patients' lives.

Personal information

References

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