Unstable spine fractures: Difference between revisions

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**Posterior elements
**Posterior elements


==Clinical Features==
===Examples of Unstable Cervical Spine Fractures===
*I:Always stable
*II:Possibly unstable
*III:Always unstable
 
==Example of Unstable Fractures==
*[[Jefferson's fracture]]
*[[Jefferson's fracture]]
*Bilateral [[Cervical facet dislocation]]
*Bilateral [[Cervical facet dislocation]]
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*''Mnemonic: "Jefferson Bit Off A Hangman's Thumb"''
*''Mnemonic: "Jefferson Bit Off A Hangman's Thumb"''


==Workup==
==Clinical Features==
*I:Always stable
*II:Possibly unstable
*III:Always unstable
 
==Evaluation==
*CT with reconstructions
*CT with reconstructions
*Consider plain x-ray in conjunction as this is what is used during orthospine f/u
*Consider plain x-ray in conjunction as this is what is used during orthospine follow up
*MRI to assess cord and ligament damage
*MRI to assess cord and ligament damage


==Management==
==Management==
{{Unstable cervical spine fracture management}}
{{Unstable cervical spine fracture management}}
==Disposition==


==See Also==
==See Also==

Latest revision as of 13:41, 23 August 2017

Background

Three-column-concept-2.jpg

Denis' three column concept helps to determine whether a vertebral fracture is stable or unstable

  • I: Anterior column
    • Anterior longitudinal ligament
    • Anterior 1/2 of the vertebral body and disk
  • II: Middle column
    • Posterior 1/2 of the vertebral body and disk
    • Posterior longitudinal ligament
  • III: Posterior column
    • Facet joints
    • Ligament flavum
    • Posterior elements

Examples of Unstable Cervical Spine Fractures

Clinical Features

  • I:Always stable
  • II:Possibly unstable
  • III:Always unstable

Evaluation

  • CT with reconstructions
  • Consider plain x-ray in conjunction as this is what is used during orthospine follow up
  • MRI to assess cord and ligament damage

Management

  • C-collar
  • Consult ortho or spine as needed

Disposition

See Also

References