Presentation
Thoracic spine tenderness after being struck by a falling object.
Patient Data
Age: 45 years
Gender: Female
From the case:
Flexion-distraction thoracic spine injury
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Unstable three-column fracture of T7 with distraction injury. The fracture extends through the vertebral body, bilateral pedicles, laminae and transverse processes.
Associated vertebral body retropulsion into the spinal canal.
Case Discussion
Flexion-distraction injuries (chance fracture) involve all three columns of the spine, with management including either a non-operative approach or surgical stabilization. Factors which lend to immobilization include a lack of neurological deficits and a stable injury. Indications for surgical stabilization include neurological deficits and/or a unstable spinal column involving compromised posterior ligaments.
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