There are no graver injuries than fracture of the bony structures of the spinal column. No class of fracture presents more difficult problems for solution. In none is there greater uncertainty as to diagnosis, management and ultimate outcome. Surgeons who have had a considerable experience with spinal fracture have not become wildly enthusiastic as regards treatment and prognosis. If a surgeon has operated frequently, he has learned that a fracture dislocation usually casuses a partial or complete division of the cord, and that complete recovery is extremely rare. He may count a considerable number of operative recoveries and some patients who have regained a partial functional activity, but complete restoration of function is uncommon. However, when we carefully review our cases and consider the extensive destruction of the cord in a large percentage of instances and the long periods of delay that are only too common before active interference is