Spine trauma: Radiological approach and new concepts

The spine is the main stabilizer and load bearer of the axial skeleton. It is also important for the protection of neural structures, such as the spinal cord, nerve roots, and cauda equina. In the healthy skeleton, most injuries are a consequence of high-energy trauma and can lead to severe dysfunction, such as tetraplegia or paraplegia. In order to avoid such disabilities, it is important to recognize details that will guide treatment, and that will determine the necessity or not to have surgery. Familiarity with radiography, CT, and MRI in evaluating spine trauma is necessary, as, in some cases, all three methods will be useful in determining management and surgical planning. The most important factor in determining management in the thoracolumbar spine is the posterior ligamentous complex (PLC). Therefore, familiarity with its anatomy, primary and secondary signs of its injuries, is essential for radiologists in the emergency setting. Spine fractures are a very heterogeneous group of disorders. Management can be both conservative and surgical. It is important for radiologists to be aware of classifications and patterns for these injuries.