ObjectiveTo review the research progress of the diagnosis and treatment of Hangman fracture.
MethodsThe original articles about the diagnosis and treatment of Hangman fracture were extensively reviewed and analyzed.
ResultsNot only X-ray, but also MRI and CT scans are necessory for the diagnosis and assessment of Hangman fractures. The treatment of unstable Hangman fracture included posterior C2, C3 fixation, anterior C2, C3 fixation, and anterior C2, C3 fixation combined with posterior C2 pedicle screw fixation. The anterior surgical fixation is used by the anterior retropharyngeal approach or subaxial anterior approach, and it has the advantages of directly resecting the injured C2, C3 discs, getting a satisfactory cervical spine alignment, and avoiding the postoperative axial pain. However, posterior surgical fixation using C2 pedicle screw has the risks of neurovascular injuries.
ConclusionThe surgical technique of Hangman fracture should be determined based on the patient's injury and surgeon's experience. Randomized control trials of different surgical techniques should be performed.
