Fracture Dislocation at the Level of C6-C7: A Case Report and Literature Review

Cureus. 2023 Feb 6;15(2):e34675. doi: 10.7759/cureus.34675. eCollection 2023 Feb.

Abstract

Fractures of the cervical spine can cause devastating long-term effects on patients. Spinal cord injuries can occur in up to 50% of cases in association with cervical spine fractures. Therefore, it is vital and of utmost importance to recognize cervical spine injuries early on to avoid the exacerbation of an existing injury and its detrimental effects on the patients. We report a case of a C6-C7 fracture dislocation with an associated neurological insult that improved dramatically following fixation and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, patients with this presentation may have long-term neurological insults rather than regain normal function; however, our case notes the importance of prompt intervention and its effect on the outcome.

Keywords: c6-7 fracture dislocation; cervical fracture; cervical spine; cervical spine fracture; fracture dislocation of cervical spine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports