F R J Groen1, D Delawi2, M C Kruyt2, F C Oner2. 1. University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Huispostnummer G 05.228, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands. floris_groen@hotmail.com. 2. University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, Huispostnummer G 05.228, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Abstract
PURPOSE: This study aimed at discussing the relevance of the type B3 fracture of the new AOSpine classification. METHODS: Hyperextension fractures of the spine are rare in the general population, but common in the ankylotic spine. We present a case of a severe spinal fracture with concomitant esophageal rupture, which was diagnosed early and could be treated during the initial trauma care. RESULTS: The spinal column was stabilized using a percutaneous technique after which the perforated esophagus was sutured through a thoracotomy. The spinal injury was classified a type B3 fracture using the new AOSpine classification. CONCLUSION: The B3 typification raised a lot of discussion during the development of the new classification system and may be controversial. This case, however, nicely illustrates the relevance of an intact posterior hinge as compared to C-type injuries where complete dissociation is present with inherent spinal cord damage.
PURPOSE: This study aimed at discussing the relevance of the type B3 fracture of the new AOSpine classification. METHODS:Hyperextension fractures of the spine are rare in the general population, but common in the ankylotic spine. We present a case of a severe spinal fracture with concomitant esophageal rupture, which was diagnosed early and could be treated during the initial trauma care. RESULTS: The spinal column was stabilized using a percutaneous technique after which the perforated esophagus was sutured through a thoracotomy. The spinal injury was classified a type B3 fracture using the new AOSpine classification. CONCLUSION: The B3 typification raised a lot of discussion during the development of the new classification system and may be controversial. This case, however, nicely illustrates the relevance of an intact posterior hinge as compared to C-type injuries where complete dissociation is present with inherent spinal cord damage.
Authors: Maximilian Reinhold; Laurent Audigé; Klaus John Schnake; Carlo Bellabarba; Li-Yang Dai; F Cumhur Oner Journal: Eur Spine J Date: 2013-03-19 Impact factor: 3.134