Levine-Edwards Classification (Hangman Fracture)

Levine-Edwards classification of a traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis (hangman's fracture, a bilateral C2 pars/pedicle fracture), types I/II/IIa/III, by translation and angulation.

Open the calculator → Runs in your browser. Data leaves only if you deliberately send a problem report from the interactive tool.

Example

Levine-Edwards type
Type II - >3 mm translation with angulation (unstable)

Result: Levine-Edwards type II: more than 3 mm of translation with significant angulation (disc / posterior-longitudinal-ligament disruption). Unstable.

The tool opens with these values already filled in. Replace them with your own.

What the result means

Type I
Less than 3 mm of translation, no significant angulation. Stable.
Type II
More than 3 mm of translation with significant angulation. Unstable.
Type IIa
Minimal translation but severe angulation (flexion); axial traction is contraindicated.
Type III
A type I fracture plus bilateral C2-C3 facet dislocation. Most severe.

What you enter

  • Levine-Edwards type
How this is calculated

Levine AM, Edwards CC. The management of traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1985;67(2):217-226. Read the source ↗

A reference and educational tool. Not medical, legal, or financial advice, and not a substitute for clinician judgment.

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Built by Clay Good. Source on GitHub.