Cervical spine fracture (broken neck bone)
About Cervical spine fracture (broken neck bone)
A fracture (break) of a bone of the neck (cervical spine). There are 7 cervical vertebrae and a fracture in this area can result in paralysis of the arms and legs (quadriplegia), an inability to breath and death.Symptoms
Neck pain, numbness, weakness, symptoms that increase with neck movement, pain that radiates into arms.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray or CT scan may be performed to rule out fracture. An MRI may be performed to detect a ligament injury, a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or cancer.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI, X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Depends on the cause and extent of the fracture but may include: immobilization with a neck brace, observation, physical therapy, epidural steroid injection, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications, acetaminophen (Tylenol), steroids, or surgery. Surgery can include fixation internally with plates or screws, or externally with a halo. Assistance with breathing (with a ventilator) may be necessary.Medical specialties
Neurosurgery · Pediatric Neurosurgery · Spine Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Cervical spine fracture (broken neck bone).