Abstract
A fracture through the pars interarticularis of the axis is colloquially known as the ‘hangman’s fracture’. The origin of the name is self-explanatory; however, in modern times the hangman’s fracture is rarely seen in suicide by hanging. This short article aimed at the non-spinal surgeon will take the reader through a brief timeline from the days of capital punishment to the modern day road traffic collision and the management of the hangman’s fracture.
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