Cervical fractures in older adults can occur with minor trauma, such as a ground-level fall. Such fractures can be very morbid and increase the risk of mortality dramatically. This Fast Fact reviews the management of these fractures. Management of cervical fractures is complex, lacks evidence-based guidance from high-quality trials, and often requires careful, shared decision-making. Palliative care teams may be asked to help support goals of care discussions with patients who have had cervical fractures, and their families. All clinicians who care for older adults should be broadly familiar with the prognosis and management of these fractures.
Link: Fast Facts #506 (04/2025)
