Condition · Spinal fractures & trauma
Hangman's Fracture
A Hangman's fracture — traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis — involves paired fractures through C2 and can alter alignment at C2–3.
Symptoms
Upper-neck pain is common after hyperextension or high-energy trauma. Neurologic injury is less common than the dramatic fracture appearance may suggest, but weakness, numbness, or gait changes still require urgent evaluation.
Diagnosis
CT defines the C2 fracture lines and displacement. MRI helps evaluate the C2–3 disc, ligaments, spinal cord, and soft tissues when instability or neurologic injury is a concern.
Treatment options
Stable, well-aligned patterns are often treated in a rigid collar with serial imaging. The goal is to maintain alignment while the fracture heals and to recognize displacement early.
When surgery is considered
Surgical stabilization is considered for unstable patterns, marked angulation or translation, disrupted C2–3 disc and ligaments, failure to maintain alignment, nonunion, or neurologic compression.
When to seek care promptly
Seek emergency evaluation after high-energy neck trauma; keep the neck immobilized until the fracture is assessed.
Initial consultation or second opinion?
Meet Dr. Jihoon Choi for an initial consultation — or bring your imaging for an independent second opinion before your next step. Call (972) 817-7450 or request a visit online.