Pneumomediastinum From Vacuum Disc and Vertebral Trauma
Mark A Ravago1, Pierre D Maldjian1
1Department of Radiology, Rutgers University, Newark, USA.
Cureus
|September 13, 2021
Summary
A rare cause of pneumomediastinum (air in the chest cavity) is presented, linked to a vacuum disc phenomenon and vertebral fracture. This unique case highlights how vertebral injury can release disc gas into the mediastinum.
Area of Science:
- Spinal Imaging and Diagnostics
- Thoracic Surgery
- Trauma Medicine
Background:
- Pneumomediastinum is typically caused by trauma to the lungs, airway, or esophagus.
- The vacuum disc phenomenon, characterized by gas within the intervertebral disc space, is a known degenerative change.
- Endplate fractures are common vertebral injuries, often associated with significant force.
Observation:
- A case of pneumomediastinum was observed in conjunction with an endplate fracture.
- The fracture was located adjacent to a disc space exhibiting the vacuum disc phenomenon.
- This association suggests a potential link between vertebral injury and gas release from the disc.
Findings:
- The study identified a unique mechanism for pneumomediastinum originating from a vacuum disc phenomenon.
- Vertebral injury at the vacuum disc site led to the release of gas bubbles into the mediastinum.
- Compressive forces from trauma likely disrupted the annulus fibrosus, allowing gas egress.
Implications:
- This finding expands the differential diagnosis for traumatic pneumomediastinum.
- It highlights a novel complication of the vacuum disc phenomenon, particularly in traumatic settings.
- Understanding this mechanism may influence diagnostic and treatment strategies for spinal trauma patients.
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