BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Cervical spine dislocations represent an area of great controversy among spine surgeons.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this review is to present the specific areas of controversy and to provide a review of the literature.

STUDY DESIGN: A case of cervical spine dislocation is presented to illustrate the major controversies related to the treatment of cervical spine dislocations.

METHODS: A review of the literature is presented regarding the major controversial aspects of the treatment of cervical spine dislocations.

RESULTS: The major areas of controversy include the choice of imaging, closed versus open reduction and surgical approach.

CONCLUSIONS: Guidelines for the management of cervical spine dislocations are presented based on evidence-based medicine.