Name
Allen and Ferguson Classification of Subaxial Spine Injuries.
Synonyms
Ferguson and Alllen Classification.
Source Article
Allen BL, Ferguson RL, Lehmann TR et al. A mechanistic classification of closed, indirect fractures and dislocations of the lower cervical spine. Spine. 1982;7:1-27.
Description
Allen and colleagues introduced a comprehensive classification system of subaxial spine injuries, also known as "mechanistic" classification. In this system, the injuries are classified on the basis of the mechanical mode of failure of the spine. Then, the choice of instrumentation for surgery is based on the surgeon's understanding of these injury patterns.
This classification system includes 3 common mechanisms: compression-flexion, distraction-flexion, and compression-extension. Vertical compression injury results in the burst-type injury with anterior column failure. Less common modes of insult are the distraction-extension and lateral flexion subtypes.
Scientific Spine's Comment
This classification is now rarely used.
References
Allen BL, Ferguson RL, Lehmann TR et al. A mechanistic classification of closed, indirect fractures and dislocations of the lower cervical spine. Spine. 1982;7:1-27.
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