Two-column thoracic spine fracture

Case contributed by Henry Knipe
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fall from standing height.

Patient Data

Age: 75 years
Gender: Male

Vertical oblique fracture through the posterior third of the T9 vertebral body extending from the superior endplate to the inferior posterior cortex, with minimal retropulsion but no high-grade central canal narrowing.

Right T10 transverse process fracture. T7-T10 spinous process fractures.

Mild fat stranding of the paravertebral fat but no large hematoma.

Case Discussion

This is example of a two-column injury involving the middle and posterior columns. This is a potentially unstable injury and referral to a spinal unit is required.

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