Podcast #191: Blunt Cervical Trauma

Mechanism of injury involves hyperextension/hyperflexion

Pathophysiology: inside of the arteries in the neck becomes disrupted, similar to a dissection. This is thrombogenic and leads to cerebral infarction

Neurologic deficit is common.

Other risk factors include facial fracture and cervical-spine fracture.

Treat with anticoagulation - aspirin or other antiplatelet agents are appropriate.

Increase clinical suspicion when patient presents with neurological deficit and has a negative CT.