STUDY DESIGN: A unique case of lumbosacral lateral dislocation without fracture is reported. OBJECTIVE: To report on the diagnosis and treatment of a traumatic L5-S1 lateral dislocation in a polytrauma 34-year-old male with L5 nerve root paralysis. METHOD: Interbody fusion following decompression, posterior reduction and interbody grafting combined with posterior plating was performed. RESULTS: At an early stage the patient was able to return to work and walk without supports. At the 12-month follow-up evaluation no back pain was referred and fusion was achieved. CONCLUSIONS: Lateral pure dislocation of the lumbosacral joint is very rare and can be easily misdiagnosed. A careful evaluation of the AP standard X-ray can lead to diagnosis and can be confirmed by CT scan. Prompt reduction and fusion is the treatment of choice to allow a quick functional recovery.
STUDY DESIGN: A unique case of lumbosacral lateral dislocation without fracture is reported. OBJECTIVE: To report on the diagnosis and treatment of a traumatic L5-S1 lateral dislocation in a polytrauma 34-year-old male with L5 nerve root paralysis. METHOD: Interbody fusion following decompression, posterior reduction and interbody grafting combined with posterior plating was performed. RESULTS: At an early stage the patient was able to return to work and walk without supports. At the 12-month follow-up evaluation no back pain was referred and fusion was achieved. CONCLUSIONS: Lateral pure dislocation of the lumbosacral joint is very rare and can be easily misdiagnosed. A careful evaluation of the AP standard X-ray can lead to diagnosis and can be confirmed by CT scan. Prompt reduction and fusion is the treatment of choice to allow a quick functional recovery.