Lumbar burst fracture

Background

  • Unstable
  • Can occur with or without injury to posterior elements (posterior involvement increases risk for neuro deficits)
  • Can be confused with a wedge fracture (especially on plain films)

Vertebral fractures and dislocations types

Vertebral anatomy.
Numbering order of vertebrae.

Clinical Features

  • Mechanism: axial load with failure of the anterior and middle columns

Differential Diagnosis

Thoracic Trauma

Lower Back Pain

Evaluation

  • Obtain CT if unsure (vs. wedge)

Management

Disposition

See Also

External Links

References