Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture

Question 1

What is defined as a vertebral fracture that involves the anterior and middle column?

Answer 1

Thoracolumbar burst fracture; d/t two column involvement can be unstable

Question 2

What is the treatment for a neurologically intact patient with a stable burst fracture of the lumbar spine?

Answer 2

Thoracolumbar orthosis (TLO)

Question 3

When is surgical stabilization indicated in a thoracolumbar burst fracture?

Answer 3

Neurologic compromise (anterior)
Unstable:
injury to posterior ligaments
>50% canal compromise or loss of height