Which spinal cord injury mechanism is most commonly associated with hangings?

The correct choice of distraction as the mechanism of spinal cord injury associated with hangings is based on the unique physical forces at play during such an event. In hangings, the individual’s body weight exerts a significant downward force while the neck is constrained, typically via a ligature. This results in a traction or pulling force that can lead to distraction of the cervical spine.

Distraction injuries occur when tensile forces pull the cervical vertebrae apart, potentially causing damage to the spinal cord. In the case of hangings, the rapid deceleration and the nature of the hanging itself create a situation where the spinal cord may be pulled, leading to significant trauma.

This understanding is essential in the context of trauma assessment, as the type of injury can inform clinical management and intervention strategies, especially when evaluating patients who have experienced hangings or similar mechanisms of injury.