Controversies in the treatment of cervical spine dislocations

Background contextCervical spine dislocations represent an area of great controversy among spine surgeons.PurposeThe purpose of this review is to present the specific areas of controversy and to provide a review of the literature.Study designA case of cervical spine dislocation is presented to illustrate the major controversies related to the treatment of cervical spine dislocations.MethodsA review of the literature is presented regarding the major controversial aspects of the treatment of cervical spine dislocations.ResultsThe major areas of controversy include the choice of imaging, closed versus open reduction and surgical approach.ConclusionsGuidelines for the management of cervical spine dislocations are presented based on evidence-based medicine.