[Peripheral circulatory disorders in complicated fractures of the cervical division of the spine].

Examination of 25 patients with trauma to the spinal column and cord revealed vasomotor disorders in the upper extremities. These disorders were shown to develop according to a definite pattern and depend on the duration of the injury and the severity of neurological disorders. According to the clinical findings the vascular disturbances were divided into 2 groups: spasmodic and spasmodic-atonic with pathognomonic signs. The importance of vasomotor disturbances in the diagnosis of complicated fractures of the vertebral column is outlined. The severity of the attendant vascular disorders should be taken into account in treating this group of patients.