Thoracolumbar and lumbosacral trauma

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

The evaluation and treatment of thoracolumbar and lumbosacral fractures have evolved over the past decade. Imaging standards in most trauma centers include the use of CT facilitated with MRI when necessary. Classification systems have been developed that afford both a common language for morphologic descriptions and treatment guidelines for management. Treatment guidelines are based on severity scores that take into account injury morphology and neurologic status. Most thoracolumbar and lumbosacral injuries can be managed nonsurgically; however, when surgical treatment is indicated, goals should include neurologic decompression when required, reduction, and spinal and/or pelvic stabilization. The timing of surgery is dependent on several variables, including patient comorbidities and polytrauma, but should be approached with urgency in the setting of an incomplete spinal cord injury.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationOrthopaedic Knowledge Update
Subtitle of host publicationSpine 5
PublisherWolters Kluwer Health
Pages419-432
Number of pages14
ISBN (Electronic)9781975118419
ISBN (Print)9781975117320
StatePublished - Jan 1 2018

Keywords

  • Lumbopelvic disassociation
  • Lumbosacral trauma
  • Sacral fracture
  • Thoracolumbar trauma

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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