Complete fracture-dislocation of the thoracolumbar spine without paraplegia

Am J Emerg Med. 2008 Jun;26(5):633.e5-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2007.09.023.

Abstract

Complete fracture-dislocation of thoracolumbar spine without significant neurologic deficits is a rare entity. The possible mechanism may result from the spontaneous decompressive fractures of the spinal elements with sparing of the spinal cord. Here, we report a case of a healthy 50-year-old man who presented with complete fracture-dislocation of T12 through L1 vertebrae without paraplegia. Early diagnosis and early surgery with decompression, reduction, and stabilization is the best policy in management of this unstable spine injury.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls
  • Decompression, Surgical
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery*
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / injuries*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Spinal Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Fractures / surgery*
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / injuries*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed