Evidence brief
The Subaxial Cervical Spine Injury Classification System (SLIC)
Similar philosophy to TLICS for cervical spine
Morphology: no abnormality (0), compression (1), burst (2), distraction (3), rotation (4)
DLC: intact (0), indeterminate (1), disrupted (2)
Neurology: intact (0), root injury (1), complete cord (2), incomplete cord (3)
Score <4: non-operative, =4: surgeon discretion, >4: operative
SLIC provides a standardized approach to subaxial cervical injuries, guiding treatment decisions and facilitating communication between clinicians.
Know SLIC components and scoring. Differentiate from upper cervical injuries (different classification). Key: disco-ligamentous complex (DLC) assessment via MRI. Practice scoring common patterns: facet dislocation, burst fracture.
Vaccaro AR et al. The subaxial cervical spine injury classification system: a novel approach to recognize the importance of morphology, neurology, and integrity of the disco-ligamentous complex. Spine. 2007;32(21):2365-2374.
Level IV
Case series or case reports