Type C injuries are segmental injuries. They involve an interruption or separation of both the anterior and posterior components of the vertebral segments. The disruption of the anterior component may be through the disk or vertebral body. The disruption of the posterior elements may be through the spinous process, lamina, pars interarticularis or posterior ligamentous complex.
This injury may be associated with any A-type fracture (vertebral body).
CT/radiograph images are examined to determine the fracture type.