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Published on: November 8, 2024
Extension type fracture of the ankylotic thoracic spine with gross displacement causing esophageal rupture
F R J Groen1, D Delawi2, M C Kruyt2
1University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Huispostnummer G 05.228, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands. floris_groen@hotmail.com.
Purpose:
This study aimed at discussing the relevance of the type B3 fracture of the new AOSpine classification.
Methods:
Hyperextension fractures of the spine are rare in the general population, but common in the ankylotic spine. We present a case of a severe spinal fracture with concomitant esophageal rupture, which was diagnosed early and could be treated during the initial trauma care.
Results:
The spinal column was stabilized using a percutaneous technique after which the perforated esophagus was sutured through a thoracotomy. The spinal injury was classified a type B3 fracture using the new AOSpine classification.
Conclusion:
The B3 typification raised a lot of discussion during the development of the new classification system and may be controversial. This case, however, nicely illustrates the relevance of an intact posterior hinge as compared to C-type injuries where complete dissociation is present with inherent spinal cord damage.
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