| Jefferson fracture | |
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| Image of the first cervical vertebra, which is broken during a Jefferson fracture | |
| Specialty | Orthopedics |
A Jefferson fracture is a bone fracture of the anterior and posterior arches of the C1 vertebra,[1] though it may also appear as a three- or two-part fracture. The fracture may result from an axial load on the back of the head or hyperextension of the neck (e.g. caused by diving), causing a posterior break, and may be accompanied by a break in other parts of the cervical spine.[1]
It is named after the British neurologist and neurosurgeon Sir Geoffrey Jefferson, who reported four cases of the fracture in 1920 in addition to reviewing cases that had been reported previously.[2]
- ^ a b Wheeless, Clifford. "Atlas Frx / Jefferson Fracture". Duke University Division of Orthopaedic Surgery. Retrieved 2007-11-29.
- ^ Jefferson G (1920). "Fracture of the atlas vertebra: report of four cases, and a review of those previously recorded". Br J Surg. 7 (27): 407–22. doi:10.1002/bjs.1800072713. S2CID 71921223.