Vertebral fracture caused by electric shock: case report and systematic review

This study aims to explore the clinical characteristics of spinal fractures resulting from electric shock injuries. By analyzing a rare case of spinal fractures following electric shock, combined with a review of existing literature, we aim to provide clinicians with guidance on the diagnosis and treatment of such injuries.

We reported a 49-year-old male patient who sustained a spinal fracture due to electric shock, including his medical history, physical examination findings, imaging studies, and clinical prognosis. Additionally, a systematic review of relevant literature was conducted to analyze the mechanisms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic characteristics associated with spinal fractures caused by electric shock injuries.

The patient sustained a severe spinal fracture as a result of an electric shock. Imaging examinations indicated the presence of compression fractures at T1 and burst fractures at T4 and T6. Following open reduction, the patient's back pain was significantly alleviated postoperatively. A systematic review encompassed 12 cases, all of which involved male patients with an average age of 36.4 years, ranging from 14 to 50 years. Analysis of fracture distribution revealed that 75% (9 out of 12) of the compression fractures were localized to the thoracic spine.

All 12 cases included in this systematic review were male patients, which may reflect the higher occupational exposure risk of men to electrical hazards and potential reporting bias. For individuals experiencing back pain following an electric shock injury, particularly male patients, it is essential to consider the potential for spinal fractures to prevent missed diagnoses.