Thoracic spine fractures.

Fractures of the thoracic spine (T2-T12) should be considered as a separate entity because of the anatomic features of the rib cage and spinal canal in this region. Fifty-seven patients sustained this injury over a 10-year period (16% of thoracic, thoracolumbar, and lumbar fractures). Twenty-eight fracture dislocations, 25 compression fractures, and 1 burst fracture were seen. Three injuries, combining elements of a burst fracture and a dislocation, were designated "burst-dislocations." Apart from compression fractures, a direct blow was often the implicated mechanism of injury. Significant associated injuries were uncommon. Fracture-dislocations were often associated with neurologic injury and compression fractures with long-term pain. Operative treatment appeared to afford the best results for stabilization and pain relief.