Cervical Spine Trauma: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Mohamad Dimas Ismail *
Orthopedics and Traumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University-Prof IGNG Ngoerah General Hospital, Bali, Indonesia.
Ida Bagus Gede Arimbawa
Orthopedics and Traumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University-Prof IGNG Ngoerah General Hospital, Bali, Indonesia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Cervical spine trauma includes a wide range of injuries, from mild ligament and muscle damage to vertebral fractures and dislocations that may cause serious spinal cord injury.
Aims: This review aims to comprehensively explore cervical spine trauma, including its definition, epidemiology, classification, diagnostic approaches, management strategies, and prognosis.
Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Relevant articles on cervical spine trauma published between 2000 and 2024 were reviewed.
Results: Cervical spine trauma has an annual incidence of approximately 12/100,000 population. Spinal cord injury occurs in 12-50% of patients. Upper cervical injuries account for 83.5% of cases. Classification systems including AO Spine and SLIC guide treatment decisions. Management ranges from non-operative treatment with cervical collars to operative interventions including fusion and stabilization.
Conclusion: Cervical spine trauma represents a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early recognition, accurate classification, and appropriate management are crucial for optimizing outcomes.
Keywords: Cervical spine trauma, spinal cord injury, cervical fracture, atlantoaxial instability, spinal trauma classification