A nonoperative cervical orthosis or external immobilization (6-12 weeks) in facet fractures without significant subluxation, dislocation, or kyphosis.
Traumatic disc herniation in cervical facet dislocations is not an absolute contraindication of cranial-cervical traction or posterior open reduction. Early realignment of the spine could bring more neurological benefits than waiting for an MRI or surgical discectomy. However, caution is needed until prospective and well-designed studies are performed 1).