Non-operative reduction of a cervical dislocation can be extremely difficult. Even with modern techniques and technology, it is occasionally not possible to reduce a cervical subluxation non-operatively. However, with modern anesthesia, muscle relaxants, and traction systems, it has to be much easier than what it was in 1936.
Here’s another video produced by the British Medical Association; this time demonstrating an attempted cervical reduction of bilateral jumped facets at C5-6. The x-ray is striking. Cases of such severe subluxation without spinal cord injury are rare. The attempted reduction is brutal and ineffective. Modern reduction techniques are much more controlled and safe.
Also shown is a case of unilateral subluxation in an infant after a tonsilectomy. Although there are no x-rays, no images of the reduction procedure, and no follow-up, the pre-reduction examination is striking and informative.
