Management of neglected post-traumatic c4/c5 spondyloptosis in a low-resource setting: a case report and review of literature

Abstract Background Cervical spondyloptosis is a rare and devastating type of injury. When neglected, they pose additional challenges to the attending surgeon. Case presentation A 50-year-old female with neglected post-traumatic C6 quadriplegia and C4/C5 spondyloptosis was managed with cervical traction and a single-stage anterior cervical approach. She made significant neurologic improvement. A summary of the clinical presentation, problems with delayed presentation, factors guiding management decisions, and surgical approach were highlighted, and the relevant literature was reviewed. Conclusion Neglected C4/C5 cervical spondyloptosis is an uncommon form of spine injury with variable management modalities and outcomes. Within the limits of the published data, we suggest an individualized approach to care.