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CHAPTER 11
of the calcified anterior-posterior ligamentous complex and upward and anterior separa
tion of the C6 vertebra (Fig. 56). As in this case skull and cervical spine formed a rigid
block, the acting force resulted in backward displacement of Cy and its neighbouring
upper thoracic vertebra. Further experience will show whether backward displacement
of the distal cervical and upper thoracic spine following fractures of C6 represents the
characteristic mechanism in ankylosing spondylitis below the fractured C6 vertebra
(Fig. 56).
Individuals suffering from chronic cervical spondylosis, in particularly elderly people,
can also easily be involved in spinal injuries due to falls. Fig. 573 demonstrates the
FIG. 57.
X-ray of a 74-year-old man with an extensive general spondylosis of the cervical spine,
who fell backwards from a haystack and sustained a fracture dislocation of C6 vertebra
and backwards displacement together with
Cj
vertebra. He sustained a very severe,
although not absolutely complete, tetraplegia below C6/y. The motor paralysis at first
was almost complete with the exception of the toes of the left foot. Bladder and bowels
were paralysed. Skull traction was applied and as seen in Fig. 57b resulted in an anatomical
realignment of the spine and fusion between €5 and C6. The patient made a considerable
neurological recovery of both motor and sensory function but no restoration of bladder
function in spite of two transurethral resections. He was able to walk short distances with
the aid of a stick. Last seen on 15 July 1971 at the age of 80.
