ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies a novel classification system for subaxial cervical spine injuries based on some components. The classification system was designed to provide a uniform system of classifying injuries and an algorithm in which to guide treatment. The classification system was derived through a literature review and expert opinion of experienced spine surgeons from a subcommittee of the Spine Trauma Study Group (STSG). In addition, a multicenter reliability and validity study of the system was conducted on a collection of trauma cases presented to spine surgeons. Three primary injury characteristics were identified: injury morphology as determined by the pattern of spinal column disruption on imaging studies, integrity of the disco-ligamentous complex, and neurologic status of the patient. This injury morphology almost certainly implies disruption to both the anterior and posterior structures. The intervertebral disc, anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments, ligamentum flavum, interspinous and supraspinous ligaments, and facet capsules all fall under this category.
