How dangerous is a c1 fracture?

Answer 1

It can result in possible death. A fracture of the C1 vertebrae is not commonly associated with spinal cord damage. The most common C1 fractures are from axial compression caused by trauma (Examples: diving into shallow water, falling from a height onto the head, or motor vehicle accidents that cause the head to be thrown into the windshield); thus, they need to be immediately stabilized at the scene, which requires the customary attention to the ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation). If the airway is compromised or air exchange is inadequate, intubation without moving head is crucial to maintain oxygen. The human body can go without oxygen for about 10 minutes. The brain cannot go without oxygen for very long, and will start to die in a couple of minutes.