Thoracic Trauma

Question 1

Most common of all thoracic spine fractures. Typically in lower thoracic or upper lumbar spine.

Answer 1

Compression fracture

Question 2

Most common sign of a compression fracture?

Answer 2

Anterior vertebral body wedging

Question 3

This will only be seen with recent compression fractures. A break in the cortex with anterior displacement of the superior endplate

Answer 3

Step sign

Question 4

A white (more opaque) line paralleling the superior endplate of a vertebra (Lateral view). Only seen with recent fractures

Answer 4

Zone of condensation

Question 5

An alteration of the paraspinal line due to hematoma. Only seen with recent fractures

Answer 5

Paraspinal mass

Question 6

Injection of bone cement into vertebral body for treatment of acute compression fracture.

Answer 6

Vertebroplasty

Question 7

Expansion of vertebral body with balloon to reduce kyphotic angulation, followed by injection of bone cement.

Answer 7

Kyphoplasty