Objective: To demonstrate the pathoanatomy, presentation and management of these injuries.

Material and Method: The present study was conducted retrospectively at Chiang Mai University Hospital during 2008-2011. Ten patients were classified as to whether 2 unilateral/2 bilateral subluxation or 1 unilateral/5 bilateral dislocation. Pain, neurological status, imaging and bony fusion were recorded.

Results: The average timing before achieving treatment was 52 days. Five patients had arm pain and radiculopathy; the other 5 had myelopathy. Nine of 10 patients had posterior element fractures. No disc herniation was found. Pain and neurological status were improved after surgical decompression, realignment, stabilization and fusion. Bony fusions were achieved in all follow-up patients.

Conclusion: Most patients have posterior element fractures without any evidence of intervertebral disc herniation. Spinal malalignment is the main cause of neurological impairment. Posterior-anterior approach is the favorable approach for old dislocation. Anterior approach is preferred for subluxation.

Keywords: Subaxial cervical facet, Subluxation, Dislocation, Old injury, Presentation and treatment