Unstable cervical spine without spinal cord injury in penetrating neck trauma.
Cervical spine instability in the neurologically intact patient following penetrating neck trauma has been considered rare or non-existent. We present a case of a woman with an unstable C5 fracture without spinal cord injury after a gunshot wound to the neck. Considerations regarding the risk of cervical spine instability are discussed, as well as suggestions for a prudent approach to such patients.
Apfelbaum
J D
JD
Denver Health Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, CO, USA.
Cantrill
S V
SV
Waldman
N
N
D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D004638:Emergency Treatment / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D019838:Neck Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D012307:Risk Factors; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D013123:Spinal Fusion; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000150:complications*