Hangman’s fracture, a cardinal fracture, is a fracture of the second cervical vertebrae in the human body. There are four general types of cardinal fractures. The first, and least severe type, consists of a cardinal fracture with no subluxation, as well as a fracture with a subluxation of <3 mm, but no deformity of angulation, which is considered a stable fracture. The second type, refers to a fracture that is misaligned and moves forward, or causes the anterior superior margin of the third cervical vertebra, to fracture. Both of these types are caused by hyperextension of the cervical spine, and excessive pressure on the posterior side of the neck. The third type, in which there is a severe, angular deformity of the fracture site, as well as a mild misalignment toward the front of the neck, is usually due to excessive bowing of the head. The fourth type, a fracture of the arch of the cardinal vertebrae, together with manifestations of convex dislocation and interlocking of the joints, is a stable fracture.