Multiple contiguous spinous process fractures, a case report and literature review

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Trauma care
• Spinal injuries

Background:

• Contiguous spinous process fractures are exceptionally rare spinal injuries.
• Literature reports few cases, often presenting as stable lesions.

Observation:

• A 61-year-old male sustained eight contiguous spinous process fractures.
• The injury occurred subsequent to a tractor accident.

Findings:

• Despite generally good outcomes with conservative treatment (analgesia, immobilization, activity restriction), these fractures carry a notable risk of nonunion.
• This case presents an unusually high number of contiguous fractures in a single event.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for severe, multi-level spinous process fractures in high-impact trauma.
• Underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring for nonunion in these rare injuries.
• May inform future management strategies for extensive spinous process fractures.