Management of post-traumatic neglected cervical facet dislocation

This study reviews the outcomes of treating patients with neglected cervical facet dislocations, a condition where the bones in the neck are dislocated and treatment is delayed. These injuries often result from falls or accidents and can lead to serious neurological issues. The research focuses on patients who presented late for treatment in India, often due to factors like rural backgrounds, lack of access to specialized medical care, and socioeconomic issues. Early treatment is crucial for better neurological outcomes, but delayed treatment poses significant challenges. The study evaluates the effectiveness of surgical interventions, including anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and posterior lateral mass screw fixation, in improving the condition of these patients. The goal is to provide mechanical stability, facilitate rehabilitation, and improve the chances of neurological recovery.

• 1
  Patients who underwent anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) after complete closed reduction with an intact disco-ligamentous complex showed positive outcomes.
• 2
  Patients who did not achieve complete reduction or had posterior disco-ligamentous injuries required a combined procedure involving posterior partial facetectomy and lateral mass screw fixation with anterior discectomy and fusion, also showing improvement.
• 3
  The study found that proper decompression, reduction, and fixation in neglected cervical dislocation provides mechanical stability, facilitates rehabilitation, prevents kyphotic deformity, and offers a fair chance of neurological recovery.