When discussing spinal injuries caused by car accidents, "hanging fractures" are often one of the most shocking cases. This kind of fracture not only involves the cervical spine, but may also affect the spinal cord, thus posing a threat to human life. What is the terrifying mechanism and circumstances behind this? This article will delve into it and reveal the truth about this issue.
Hanging fractures are mainly caused by strong hyperextension or axial loading of the neck. This usually occurs after a high-impact impact, such as a car accident or a fall. According to a study from Norway, 60% of reported cervical spine fractures were caused by falls, while 21% were from traffic accidents. Especially among senior citizens aged 65 to 84, the risk of fractures remains high.
The injury of hanging fracture is usually caused by strong over-extension of the head, especially when the neck is extended. When the head is suddenly impacted, it will inevitably lead to cervical spine injury.
This kind of injury is not limited to judicial hangings. Even in traffic accidents, when the driver or passenger's cheek encounters constant hard objects, the cervical spine is also at risk. In these incidents, the speed and force with which the face comes into contact with an object can be fatal in an instant.
To avoid fractures caused by car accidents, passengers and drivers must keep their seat belts fastened at all times. Especially during high-speed driving or sudden braking, passengers who are not wearing seat belts are more likely to face direct head impacts.
In contact sports, players also need to wear appropriate protective equipment, such as helmets, to reduce the risk of head injuries. Sports organizations and teams should promote and emphasize these safety measures to ensure player safety.
The treatment methods for hanging fractures are mainly divided into two types: non-surgical and surgical. Non-surgical treatments usually require spinal immobilization, while surgery may involve cervical spine fusion or other repair procedures. Studies have shown that patients who undergo surgical treatment have a significantly reduced risk of future complications, will not suffer from problems such as nail hole infections, and can return to daily life more quickly.
According to AHRQ data, C2 fractures account for a significant proportion of all vertebral fractures, especially in elderly patients. These data show that in the United States, 12,532 patients were hospitalized for C2 fractures in 2010, a number that surged 250% over a decade, showing that the incidence of these fractures cannot be underestimated as we age.
The medical expenses required for the treatment of hanging fractures are also rising, showing that society attaches great importance to this issue.
According to the survey, the average medical cost for C2 fractures in 2010 was US$17,000. In the past ten years, this number has increased to nearly US$60,000. This reflects the effort and cost to the healthcare system and society in responding to this harm.
Have you ever wondered how many potential neck injury risks are hidden in daily life?