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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity
Published on: September 16, 2022
Comminuted fracture of the thoracic spine
J P Cashman1, F L Carty, M Ryan
1Dept of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork. james.cashman@gmail.com
Background:
Road deaths fell initially after the introduction of the penalty points but despite this, the rate of spinal injuries remained unchanged.
Aims:
We report a patient with a dramatic spinal injury, though without neurological deficit. We discuss the classification, management and economic impact of these injuries.
Methods:
We describe the management of a patient with a comminuted thoracic spinal fracture without neurological injury. We conducted a literature review with regard to the availability of literature of the management of these injuries.
Results:
This 17-year-old female was managed surgically and had a good functional outcome. There is no clear consensus in the published literature on the management of these injuries.
Conclusions:
Comminuted thoracic spinal factures are potentially devastating. Such a patient presents challenges in determining the appropriate treatment.
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