Back and Neck Injury/Hangman's Fracture

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Expert: Dr. Peter Carr - 10/22/2009


Question
Hello,

This question is for the purpose of writing a fictional story.  I appreciate your assistance:  Is there any rational, plausible way for a competent medical doctor who has performed an autopsy on a body to sincerely, but INCORRECTLY conclude that the person died from “Hangman’s Fracture“?  If so, what could be some possible explanations?  Many thanks in advance.  

Answer
Nope, you would really have to be a dumbass to miss the fracture.  However, I do know that people can survive a hangman's fracture... so yes, of course someone could die of something OTHER than that.  If someone has this, they can hold their head up, (I think it's called Rust's sign) and avoid, well, death, by suffocation, if I remember correctly!

Back and Neck Injury

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Dr. Peter Carr

Expertise

I can answer spine related issues, as well as golf, running, and whiplash related issues. I run a very busy practice in Downtown Seattle, Dynamic Chiropractic Clinic, and sometimes do not get to answer questions every day, but when I do, I'll try my best to answer the question(s) you have.

Experience

I have a doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic, and am a Certified Chiropractic Golf Practitioner. I am also a lecturer on whiplash injury, certified in the etiology and treatment of auto accident cases, and was a national-level mid distance runner.

Organizations
American Chiropractic Association, Washington State Chiropractic Association, Whiplash Seattle Member and founder

Publications
Dynamic Chiropractic, The Beacon

Education/Credentials
DC, BS

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