ABSTRACT

Paediatric spinal injuries are uncommon, making up <2% of all spinal injuries and <1% of all paediatric injuries. The true incidence may be underestimated. Neurological deficit is rare and the prognosis better than in adult injuries. The commonest site of injury involves the upper three cervical vertebrae. The paediatric pattern of injury persists until about the age of 10 years, when patterns change to the adult type.