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A fall, a collision or a car accident, which one will cause you to never be able to lift your head again in your life? Learn about the deadly threat of "hanging fracture"!
Among all spinal fractures, a "hanging fracture" refers to a fracture of both vertebrae of the second cervical vertebra (C2). This fracture is usually related to severe external force, whether it is a fall, traffic accident or other injury. According to surveys, one of the main causes of this type of fracture is falls, especially among the elderly, which accounts for a considerable proportion.
According to a Norwegian study, 60% of cervical fractures are caused by falls, and 21% are caused by traffic accidents.
Causes of fractures
Hanging fractures are mostly caused by the strong extension of the neck caused by gravity. According to the study, older adults, especially those aged 65 to 84, are at particularly high risk. This age group is frequently injured by falls, and in urban areas, traffic accidents significantly increase the risk of fractures.
In one study, older adults experienced a significant incidence of hanging bone fractures after pulmonary crises and weightlessness.
Discussion of injury mechanism
The mechanism of injury for this fracture is primarily forced hyperextension of the neck, usually accompanied by traction of the neck. In some situations, such as judicial hanging, the victim's head is forced to overextend, which may lead to hanging fractures. Despite this, only a small number of hangings actually resulted in broken bones.
The most common scenario involves a car accident where a passenger or driver, while not wearing a seatbelt, strikes their face against the steering wheel or windshield, causing a forceful hyperextension of the neck. Secondary injuries include falls, diving injuries, and collisions between players in league sports.
Prevention of fractures
To effectively prevent hanging fractures, we should first pay attention to the dangers of traffic accidents. When driving, always wear a seat belt to avoid neck injuries caused by sudden impacts. At the same time, when engaging in various contact sports, one should also enhance one's safety awareness.
Falls and collisions are the main factors leading to fractures, so do not take them lightly in sports competitions.
Treatment methods
The treatment of hanging fractures can be divided into two methods: non-surgical and surgical. According to the study, specific treatment plans will vary depending on patient characteristics and the extent of the fracture. Some studies have shown that patients who undergo surgery have a significantly lower risk of developing subcutaneous infection, joint stiffness, or skin necrosis.
Effects and results of surgery
Gradually in-depth studies have shown that after surgical treatment, patients' fractures heal well and the quality of life of most patients is improved. Although surgery may carry certain risks, the overall recovery cannot be ignored.
Epidemiological data
According to data, C2 fractures account for approximately 19% of all spinal fractures and 55% of cervical fractures. Hanging fractures account for 23% of C2 fractures.
Social impact and costs
According to health research statistics, in 2010, 12,532 patients were hospitalized in the United States due to C2 fractures, and the average medical expenses were as high as $17,015. Among them, the number of deaths in hospital was relatively low, indicating that even if a fracture occurs, the patient's survival rate is still relatively high.
In the process of prevention and treatment, can we better protect ourselves and avoid the risk of fracture caused by hanging?
