## Overview This entry covers cervical vertebral fractures that produce instability, meaning the vertebrae can shift abnormally and threaten the spinal cord. Instability may be immediate after trauma or develop as fragments displace. Clinical signs are those of fracture plus varying degrees of ataxia or paresis. ## Causes Trauma that disrupts bony or ligamentous stabilizers of the cervical spine. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination plus imaging (radiographs, computed tomography) that demonstrates malalignment or excessive motion. Dynamic views are used cautiously. ## Treatment Strict immobilization, anti-inflammatory medication, and, when appropriate, surgical stabilization. Prognosis is poorer than for stable fractures. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded to poor. Successful surgical cases exist, but many horses do not regain athletic function or survive. ## Prevention Same as for cervical fracture.
neck pain; ataxia; paresis; abnormal vertebral alignment on imaging; worsening neurologic signs
## Overview This entry covers cervical vertebral fractures that produce instability, meaning the vertebrae can shift abnormally and threaten the spinal cord. Instability may be immediate after trauma or develop as fragments displace. Clinical signs are those of fracture plus varying degrees of ataxia or paresis. ## Causes Trauma that disrupts bony or ligamentous stabilizers of the cervical spine. ## Diagnosis Neurologic examination plus imaging (radiographs, computed tomography) that demonstrates malalignment or excessive motion. Dynamic views are used cautiously. ## Treatment Strict immobilization, anti-inflammatory medication, and, when appropriate, surgical stabilization. Prognosis is poorer than for stable fractures. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded to poor. Successful surgical cases exist, but many horses do not regain athletic function or survive. ## Prevention Same as for cervical fracture.
neck pain; ataxia; paresis; abnormal vertebral alignment on imaging; worsening neurologic signs