Pediatric transverse sacral fracture with cauda equina syndrome
Ashwin Avadhani1, Ajoy P Shetty, S Rajasekaran
1Department of Spine Surgery, Ganga Hospital, 313 Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
The Spine Journal : Official Journal of the North American Spine Society
|December 29, 2009
Summary
Pediatric transverse sacral fractures are rare but can cause cauda equina syndrome. Early surgical decompression is crucial for neurological recovery, as demonstrated by a patient who regained bowel and bladder function.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Transverse sacral fractures are exceptionally rare in children, with limited documented cases.
- This study addresses the rarity of traumatic pediatric transverse sacral fractures and associated cauda equina syndrome.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old female presented with a Type III Roy-Camille, Zone III Denis sacral fracture.
- Her primary neurological deficit was cauda equina syndrome, affecting bowel and bladder function.
Findings:
- The patient underwent emergent sacral laminectomy and surgical stabilization for decompression.
- Bowel and bladder function improved significantly by the 6-month follow-up.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for high suspicion in diagnosing pediatric transverse sacral fractures.
- Emphasizes the importance of prompt surgical decompression for reversing neurological deficits in such rare injuries.
