Rule of Spence
C1 (Jefferson) fractures
Explanation
Look at anteroposterior view of C-spine X-ray. If the sum overhang of both C1 lateral masses on C2 is larger than / equal to 7mm, consider fracture as instable.
Treatment
- < 7mm: soft or rigid collar
- >= 7mm: halo vest
Reference
Greenberg's Handbook of Neurosurgery, 7th edition