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Lateral flexion/extension radiographs: still recommended following cervical spinal injury

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Abstract

We present the case of a patient who sustained a cervical spinal injury and subsequent transient quadriplegia with full recovery from the spinal cord concussion. Initial plain X-ray films and magnetic resonance imaging did not show any pathological findings, but lateral radiographs in flexion and extension performed 10 days later revealed a fracture of the C4 spinous process without ligamentous instability, confirming significant injury to the cervical spine.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Basel, Kantonsspital, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland

    R. Fricker & A. Gachter

Authors
  1. R. Fricker
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  2. A. Gachter
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Fricker, R., Gachter, A. Lateral flexion/extension radiographs: still recommended following cervical spinal injury. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 113, 115–116 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00572919

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00572919

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