Case Report

Pathologic Cervical Burst Fracture Presenting with Airway Compromise

Authors: Joshua J. Wind, MD, Joshua M. Ammerman, MD

Abstract

Mechanical airway compromise following cervical spine injury or fracture is a rare but known entity. It most commonly is the result of the development of a retropharyngeal hematoma or prevertebral soft tissue edema that obstructs the airway, leading to respiratory distress and emergent need for airway management and possible surgical intervention. We present a novel case of airway compromise following a C3 burst fracture without associated retropharyngeal hematoma or prevertebral soft tissue edema. Surgical management is discussed, and a review of relevant literature is provided. Pathological cervical spine fracture must be included in the differential diagnosis of a patient presenting with acute airway obstruction of unknown etiology.

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