Another chance: a non-seatbelt related fracture of the lumbar spine.

A previously undescribed upper lumbar spine fracture configuration is reviewed in three patients. These flexion/distraction injuries were not associated with seatbelt use. The anterior vertebral body underwent significant compression. The distraction component created a horizontal fracture through the pedicles and lamina, with avulsion of the spinous process of the adjacent cephalad vertebra.