Broken Neck
What is a broken neck?
What are the signs of a broken neck?
What causes a broken neck?
How does my doctor tell if I have a broken neck?
How is a broken neck treated?
What is a broken neck?
A broken neck is a fracture or dislocation of the bones (vertebrae) of the neck. The neck is made up of seven vertebrae and when one or more of them is broken, it represents a very serious medical condition and the patient should not normally be moved because further injury can be caused. The emergency services should be contacted immediately (dial 911).
What are the signs of a broken neck?
Usually following an accident or injury:
- Neck pain, which may or may not be severe
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness
- Decreased feeling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness or paralysis of the arms or legs
What causes a broken neck?
A neck fracture is normally caused by severe trauma to the neck. Examples of trauma could be:
- Falls, such as from a horse or bike
- Collisions, such as motorcycle or automobile
- Diving into shallow water
- Severe and sudden twist to the neck
- Severe blows to the head or neck area
How does my doctor tell if I have a broken neck?
The doctor will take some of the following steps to see if a patient has a broken neck:
- If possible, talk with the patient about how and when the injury occurred and what pain or difficulties the patient is experiencing
- Perform a physical examination by looking at the neck, back, legs, and any other areas of the body that might be affected
- Order X-rays to get a clear view of the neck bones
- Arrange for an MRI (magnetic resonance image), a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the neck and back. An MRI provides cross-sectional images that allow the doctor to see if there is damage to the spinal cord.
- Request a CT scan, a type of X-ray that uses computers to make pictures of structures inside the neck and back. It can be used to determine the extent of injury, specifically to see if the spinal cord is compressed.
How is a broken neck treated?
A first-aid response is appropriate if you suspect a broken neck. In other words, do not move the patient unless their life is in immediate danger—for instance, if they are unable to breathe or trapped in a fire.
After a patient is diagnosed with a broken neck, the doctor will have to determine the best treatment depending on the type of break.
Surgery is often considered to treat a fractured back. The surgeon chooses the treatment method based on the severity of the fracture. For example, the fractured bones (vertebrae) may be fused to the healthy vertebrae next to it, or may be removed and replaced with a bone graft that is fused to the vertebrae on either side. Traction techniques may be used to help align the bones as they heal. Neck surgery is often complicated and the recovery process can be slow.
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