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Updated: May 27, 2026
04:19
Minimally Invasive Treatment for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture Using Sagittal Alignment Screws and A Trauma Reduction Device
Published on: November 8, 2024
Multiple associated injuries are common with spine fractures during war
Jeanne C Patzkowski1, James A Blair, Andrew J Schoenfeld
1Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, San Antonio Military Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA. jeanne.patzkowski2@amedd.army.mil
Summary
American military personnel in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) frequently sustained multiple injuries alongside spine fractures. Musculoskeletal injuries were most common, but visceral trauma also occurred frequently.
Area of Science:
- Military medicine
- Trauma surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
Background:
- Concomitant injuries associated with spine fractures in military personnel during OEF/OIF are under-documented.
- Understanding these associated injuries is crucial for effective trauma management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the incidence and epidemiology of associated injuries (AIs) in American military personnel with spine fractures.
- Study period: 2001-2009 during OEF and OIF.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study utilizing the Joint Theater Trauma Registry (JTTR).
- Identified spine injuries using ICD-9 codes.
- Collected demographic data, fracture details, injury mechanisms, and AIs.
Main Results:
- 78% of patients with spine fractures had at least one AI (average 3.4 AIs/patient).
- Musculoskeletal injuries were most common, followed by chest, abdomen, and traumatic brain injuries.
- Explosive mechanisms caused most injuries; fracture patterns correlated with injury types and mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Spine fractures in OEF/OIF are associated with high rates of AIs.
- Musculoskeletal and visceral injuries are common.
- Multiple spine fractures are prevalent in military trauma.
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