Hangman's Fracture

Hangman's fracture also known as traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis, is when a fracture occurs usually on c2 at the posterior arch bilaterally. This type of fracture got its name obviously from what would happen back in the day when people were hung. Now days this type of common fracture is caused by MVAs and the patient hitting the dashboard or windshield causing compression and hyper extension of the neck. Implications of this type of fracture are lacerations to the face and head as well as neck pain. Treatment of this injury is determined by the severity of the injury and ranges from 8 to 12 weeks in a C-collar, traction and extension in a halo vest, or immediate surgery to stabilize c2 and c3. If the fracture extends into the transverse foramina, angiography may be performed to exclude vertebral artery dissection. Chances of neurological damage increases with the severity of the injury.

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