FRACTURES AND DISLOCATIONS OF THE CERVICAL SPINE

Part II. Dislocations, Complications, and Operative Treatment

1. Fractures and dislocations of the cervical spine should be reduced at once, just as are similar injuries elsewhere in the body.

2. Fractures are more serious than dislocations, and are more liable to be fatal or to be accompanied by irreparable cord or nerve damage.

3. Dislocations are very rarely fatal. Their reduction is not dangerous. They will not recur if properly treated.

4. Fixation after reduction either of a fracture or of a dislocation must be complete and of long duration.

5. Early complications cannot be avoided. Proper treatment begun early will lessen their permanent effects.

6. Late complications are usually due to lack of early treatment and to inadequate fixation.

7. Operation is rarely indicated except to relieve late cord symptoms.

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