Hangman’s Fracture of the Cervical Spine: A Prospective Study

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Hangman’s fracture is the second most common fracture of all the C2 vertebral fractures. It has been observed,which accounts for 55% of cervical fractures. They form 23–25% of (C2) axis fractures.Materials and Methods: All Type II and IIa hangman’s fractures operated were included in this study. Twelve patients (eightmen and four women) between 20 and 60 years of age diagnosed with unstable hangman’s fracture, treated, and followed upin our department were included in the study. Ten patients were injured in road traffic accidents, and two were injured due tofalls from height.Results: The total number of patients included in the study was 12, the age range from 20 to 60 years; male-to-female ratiois 84. All patients presented with neck pain. In Type II and IIa cases, the anterior approach was made in ten cases, where thereduction was achieved with traction. In anterior cases, the reduction was maintained after fixation.Conclusion: The anterior approach with primary internal stabilization is the appropriate option for unstable Type II, Type IIahangman’s fracture in cases was preoperative reduction that could be achieved. Using the anterior approach with the primaryinternal fixation of these fractures, solid fusion was achieved in all cases.