In Vitro Genesis of Subaxial Cervical Unilateral Facet Dislocations Through Sequential Soft Tissue Ablation

Abstract

This anatomic study further supports the theory that discontinuity of the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments is not necessary for a unilateral facet dislocation to occur. The ipsilateral facet capsule, anulus fibrosus, and ligamentum flavum appear to be the physical soft tissue restraints that need to be disrupted to produce a unilateral facet dislocation.