SPINAL FRACTURES

Breaks or collapses in the vertebrae that comprise the spinal column are referred to as spinal fractures. These fractures may impair neurological function and spinal stability. They may affect the posterior elements, the vertebral body, or both. Spinal fractures can be categorized as stable or unstable based on their severity. Spinal cord or nerve root damage is more likely in cases of unstable fractures.

Spinal Fracture Types

• Osteoporosis frequently results in compression fractures.
• High-energy trauma with bone fragments spreading is known as a burst fracture.
• Flexion-distraction injuries, which are frequently caused by seatbelt injuries
• Dislocations and fractures are serious and unstable injuries.

Reasons

• Traffic accidents on roads
• falls from a height
• Osteoporosis
• Sports-related injuries
• Pathological fractures brought on by infections or tumors

Symptoms

• Abrupt, excruciating neck or back pain
• Movement exacerbates pain
• Spinal deformity
• Paralysis, weakness, or numbness
• loss of control over one’s bowels or bladder

Diagnosis

• X-rays for preliminary evaluation
• CT scans for the specifics of fractures
• MRI to assess damage to the spinal cord and ligaments

Treatment

• Conservative treatment using bracing and bed rest
• Rehabilitation and pain management
• Minimally invasive treatments like kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty
• Surgical stabilization using cages, screws, or rods