Injuries to the Cervical Spine

Abstract

Centers specializing in diagnosis and treatment of trauma to the cervical spine offer the best hope for recovery of patients with such injuries. Such is the belief of the neurosurgeon and neuroradiologist who have fused their experience in this excellent book. Emphasis rests on neurological and radiological diagnosis, and on early treatment (leaving details of operative procedures to other sources). Diagrams and drawings are used to illustrate mechanisms of injury to the spine and cord. The numerous radiographs are so good that the authors needed no apologies for their quality, superior to that of many expensive atlases. The authors stress the need for taking films of the entire cervical spine for injury anywhere therein, with hints on technique so as not to aggravate the injury. Few special views are advocated. The last half of the book comprises illustrative cases and comments for upper (first two) and lower cervical spine injuries.