Editing Cervical fracture (section)

==Treatment==
Complete immobilization of the head and neck should be done as early as possible and before moving the patient. Immobilization should remain in place until movement of the head and neck is proven safe. ''In the presence of severe head trauma, cervical fracture must be presumed until ruled out.'' Immobilization is imperative to minimize or prevent further [[spinal cord injury]]. The only exceptions are when there is imminent danger from an external cause, such as becoming trapped in a burning building.

[[NSAIDs|Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs]], such as [[aspirin]] or [[ibuprofen]], are contraindicated because they interfere with bone healing. [[Paracetamol]] is a better option. Patients with cervical fractures will likely be prescribed medication for pain control.

In the long term, [[physical therapy]] will be given to build strength in the muscles of the neck to increase stability and better protect the cervical spine.

[[cervical collar|Collars]], traction and surgery can be used to immobilize and stabilize the neck after a cervical fracture.

===Cervical collar===
Minor fractures can be immobilized with a [[cervical collar]] without need for traction or surgery. A soft collar is fairly flexible and is the least limiting but can carry a high risk of further neck damage in patients with [[osteoporosis]]. It can be used for minor injuries or after healing has allowed the neck to become more stable.

A range of manufactured rigid collars are also used, usually comprising a firm plastic bi-valved shell secured with [[hook-and-loop fastener|hook-and-loop fasteners]] and removable padded liners. Cervical collars can be used with additional chest and head extension pieces to increase stability.

===Rigid braces===
Rigid braces that support the head and chest are also prescribed.<ref>{{URL | http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/314921-overview | Shantanu S Kulkarni, DO and Robert H Meier III, "Spinal Orthotics", '''Medscape Reference'''}}.</ref>  Examples include the Sterno-Occipital Mandibular Immobilization Device (SOMI), Lerman Minerva and Yale types. Special patients, such as very young children or non-cooperative adults, are sometimes still immobilized in medical plaster of paris casts, such as the [[Orthopedic cast#Other casts|Minerva cast]].

===Traction===
[[Traction (orthopedics)|Traction]] can be applied by free weights on a pulley or a halo type brace. The [[Orthotics#Spinal orthoses|halo brace]] is the most rigid cervical brace, used when limiting motion to the minimum that is essential, especially with unstable cervical fractures. It can provide stability and support during the time (typically 8–12 weeks) needed for the cervical bones to heal.

===Surgery===
Surgery may be needed to stabilize the neck and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. A variety of surgeries are available depending on the injury. Surgery to remove a damaged [[intervertebral disc]] may be done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. The discs are cushions between the vertebrae. After the disc is removed, the vertebrae may be fused together to provide stability. Metal plates, screws, or wires may be needed to hold vertebrae or pieces in place.