subaxial spine

Definition

Clinical diagnosis

- based on a sclerotomal distribution of motor &/or sensory symptoms or signs

Caused by impingement of exiting nerve roots

- HNP

- zygo-apophyseal / facet joint hypertrophy

- neuro-central joint hypertrophy

May be acute or chronic

Epidemiology

M>F

Peak age 50-54

C7 > C6

Via the carotid triangle

SCM / posterior belly digastric / superior belly omohyoid

Indication

Exposes inferior body C2 - T1

Position

1.  Supine in tongs

2.  Sit on head board with head taped and slightly extended

Table 30° up

Turn head away from side of incision

Which Side