Citation

Oliver A, Allan DB. Injury 2005; 36(1): 222-225.

Affiliation

Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit, South Glasgow University Hospital NHS Trust, Southern General Hospital, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF, UK. annieoli@yahoo.com

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.injury.2004.04.003

PMID

15589947

Abstract

Flexion distraction fractures or Chance fractures are well described in the literature. We present an unusual pattern of injury of a pure lateral flexion distraction fracture of the T12 vertebra with no posterior element disruption following a blow to the right torso to a passenger in a road traffic accident. The diagnosis was made intra-operatively as the potential for this injury pattern following the described mechanism was not initially recognised. We suggest that this type of injury be suspected in any patient where a fulcrum has acted at any point around the torso.

Language: en