Spinal Fractures

Spinal Fractures

Spinal fractures or dislocation of one or more vertebrae caused due to trauma is considered a serious orthopedic injury. A fracture or dislocation of a vertebra can cause bone fragments to pinch and damage the nerves in the spinal column or even the spinal cord.

The majority of these fractures are a result of high velocity accidents and can occur in the:

  • Neck – cervical spine
  • Mid back – thoracic spine
  • Low back – lumbar spine

A cervical fracture can cause bone fragments to pinch and damage the spinal cord or the nerves surrounding the spinal cord.

What are the symptoms for Spine disorders?

Back pain 3
Moderate to severe back pain
Pain worsens with movement
Pain worsens with movement
bladder incontinence 1
Bowel or bladder dysfunction
numbness 6
Numbness, tingling or weakness in the limbs

There are numerous classifications of Spinal Fractures.

One of them is

  • Fractures
  • Dislocations
  • Fractures-Dislocations

Types of Spine Fracture Patterns

  • Flexion
    • Compression
    • Axial Burst
  • Extension
    • Distraction/Chance
  • Rotation
    • Transverse process
    • Fracture – dislocation
  • Brain injury
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Other injuries – distracting injuries

Most of the spinal fractures will require immediate surgery. Early treatment of spinal fractures ensures better outcomes in terms of functional recovery. Rehabilitation is a must for all patients with a spinal cord injury to experience a good outcome.

  • Collars or belts
  • Minimally invasive fixation and reduction
  • Open fixation and reduction
  • Fixation and decompression
Kauvery Hospital