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Multiple compression fractures of thoracic vertebrae

Case contributed by Bálint Botz
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fell while high-speed skateboarding. Severe thoracic back pain, but presents ambulatory.

Patient Data

Age: 15 years
Gender: Male

The T8-9 vertebrae appear wedge shaped on the laterolateral projection, whilst the fractured fragments are well depicted on the AP view (see magnified key images). The patient was transferred to the CT suite for a polytrauma protocol exam. 

CT confirms stable compression fractures of T8-9 vertebra, as well as more subtle anterior rim fractures of T5-6. 

No internal organ injury (other windows not shown). 

Case Discussion

While x-ray is generally inadequate for assessing major vertebral injury it is important to be familiar with the signs of acute bony injury as e.g. in case of underestimated severity of the injury it can be the first exam being performed. 


Also contributed by Dr Anita Németh. 

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