A stable injury, this fracture results from severe hyperextension and results in avulsion of the anterior inferior corner of a vertebral body, typically C2. The teardrop fragment is avulsed and is attached to the anterior longitudinal ligament.

A	Lateral radiograph of the cervical spine. This fracture from the anterior inferior corner of C2 resulted from severe hyperextension.

Links to online textbooks:

• Wheeless' Orthopedics: discussion of extension teardrop fractures

Links to online cases:

• Emedicine.com
• University of Hawaii

References:

• Clark CR, Igram CM, el-Khoury GY, Ehara S: Radiographic evaluation of cervical spine injuries Spine. 1988 Jul;13(7):742-7.           [See related articles]