Surgical Stabilization of Cervical Spine Fractures: Evolving Approaches, Outcomes, And Future Perspectives

Cervical spine fractures represent high-risk injuries associated with neurological compromise, instability, and mortality. While conservative management may suffice for stable injuries, unstable fractures with neurological deficits often require surgical stabilization. Advances in instrumentation, imaging, and minimally invasive techniques have transformed operative strategies. This review synthesizes contemporary literature on surgical stabilization of cervical spine fractures, with emphasis on classification systems, indications, surgical approaches, instrumentation, outcomes, and emerging technologies. A special focus is given to management in complex populations, including patients with osteoporosis and ankylosing spondylitis. The article highlights current evidence, compares anterior, posterior, and combined approaches, and underscores future directions such as robotics, navigation, and 3D printing.