Jefferson fracture

Jefferson fracture is a bone fracture of the anterior and posterior arches of the C1 vertebra. This injury is named after Sir Geoffrey Jefferson, a British neurologist and neurosurgeon who first described it in 1920.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The Jefferson fracture is usually caused by an axial load on the back of the head or the upper cervical spine. This can occur in a variety of situations, such as a fall from a height, a car accident, or a diving accident.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of a Jefferson fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury. They may include neck pain, headache, and difficulty moving the neck. In severe cases, there may be neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness in the limbs.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of a Jefferson fracture is typically made through imaging studies. A CT scan is the most accurate method for diagnosing this type of fracture. An X-ray may also be used, but it may not show the fracture as clearly.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment for a Jefferson fracture depends on the severity of the injury. If the fracture is stable, it may be treated with a cervical collar or halo vest to immobilize the neck. If the fracture is unstable, surgery may be required to stabilize the spine.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for a Jefferson fracture depends on the severity of the injury and the presence of any associated injuries. With appropriate treatment, most people with a Jefferson fracture can make a full recovery.

See also[edit | edit source]

Jefferson fracture Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.