Comminuted fracture of the thoracic spine

Abstract

Background: Road deaths fell initially after the introduction of the penalty points but despite this, the rate of spinal injuries remained unchanged.

Aims: We report a patient with a dramatic spinal injury, though without neurological deficit. We discuss the classification, management and economic impact of these injuries.

Methods: We describe the management of a patient with a comminuted thoracic spinal fracture without neurological injury. We conducted a literature review with regard to the availability of literature of the management of these injuries.

Results: This 17-year-old female was managed surgically and had a good functional outcome. There is no clear consensus in the published literature on the management of these injuries.

Conclusions: Comminuted thoracic spinal factures are potentially devastating. Such a patient presents challenges in determining the appropriate treatment.