Efficacy of closed reduction using craniocervical traction for traumatic cervical facet dislocation in an academic center: A pilot study

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Introduction  Acute traumatic spinal cord injury resulting from cervical facet dislocation represents a significant physical, emotional, and economic burden for patients, their families, and society.

Objectives  This pilot study evaluates the efficacy of closed reduction using craniocervical traction in patients with subaxial cervical facet dislocation.

Materials and Methods  The study included consecutive patients treated between January 2023 and February 2025 with a diagnosis of traumatic cervical subaxial cervical facet dislocation who underwent closed craniocervical traction reduction at a university academic center.

Results  Seventeen patients were included, of whom only 11 underwent closed reduction. Successful reduction rate was 90.9% with no additional neurological complications. Traction was performed under local anesthesia, with monitoring in the intensive care unit, and success was achieved even in late presentation cases (3–14 days after the injury). The most common complication was neck pain in 3 (27.3%) patients.

Conclusions  In conclusion, craniocervical traction is an effective early therapeutic option with no reports of additional complications or neurological impairment associated with the procedure.

Level of evidence: V (pilot study)

Keywords:  Cervical facet dislocation, Closed reduction, Cranio-cervical traction, Traumatic spinal cord injury, Subaxial cervical spine. ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) Impairment Scale