# Delayed Presentation of a Cervical Spine Fracture: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A man in his seventies had a delayed diagnosis of cervical spine fractures after a minor car accident.

## Contribution

This case highlights the importance of thorough follow-up in trauma patients with potential spinal injuries.

## Key findings

- The patient was initially discharged after a minor injury.
- Delayed symptoms led to the discovery of multiple cervical fractures.
- The case emphasizes the risk of missed spinal injuries in trauma patients.

## Abstract

The unique anatomy and flexibility of the cervical spine (C-spine) pose a risk of injury. Trauma to the C-spine encompasses a diverse range of injuries, ranging from minor muscular strains to life-threatening fractures and dislocations associated with spinal cord lesions.
This case report concerns a man in his seventies who presented to the emergency department immediately after a road traffic collision with only a minor laceration on his forehead. The patient was discharged after a thorough evaluation and returned the next day, reporting left-hand paresthesia, although the examination yielded no significant findings. This prompted further investigations to confirm multiple cervical vertebrae fractures later.