Cervical spine injuries in children.

Review of 24 consecutive cases of cervical spine injuries in children were reviewed showed that this uncommon injury occurred at a rate of 1.2 cases per year. Associated injuries occurred in 38%, and neurologic injury occurred in 29%, including two deaths. Results showed that 43% of children with neurologic injuries recovered. Nonoperative treatment was successful in 95%; however, 14% later developed kyphotic deformities. Surgical stabilization is recommended for flexion injuries associated with late sequelae and for compression (burst) fractures associated with neurologic injuries.