Variation in global treatment for subaxial cervical spine isolated unilateral facet fractures

Abstract Purpose To determine the variation in global treatment practices for subaxial unilateral cervical spine facet fractures based on surgeon experience, practice setting, and surgical subspecialty. Methods A survey was sent to 272 members of AO Spine Subaxial Injury Classification System Validation Group worldwide. Questions surveyed preferences with regard diagnostic work-up fracture types F1–F3, according Cervical System, various associated neurologic injuries. Results total 161 responses were received. Academic surgeons use portion classification system less frequently (61.6%) compared hospital-employed private (81.1% 81.8%, respectively) ( p = 0.029). The overall consensus favor operative any radicular symptoms (N2) categorized as F2N2 above. For F3N0 fractures, significantly from Africa/Asia/Middle East (49%) Europe (59.2%) chose than North/Latin/South America (74.1%) 0.025). F3N1 (52%) (63.3%) recommended (84.5%) 0.001). More 95% included CT their regardless type. No statistically significant differences seen need MRI decide treatment. Conclusion Considerable agreement exists between management few exceptions. subtypes radiculopathy appear be threshold