Scoliosis secondary to fractures of the transverse processes of lumbar vertebrae.

Fractures of the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae may be difficult to identify radiographically because they are often obscured by gas and feces. With unilateral fractures, there is often scoliosis convex to the side of the fractures. We propose that this may be due to the ineffective action of the ipsilateral quadratus lumborum muscle which inserts into the transverse processes. The unopposed action of the contralateral quadratus lumborum results in scoliosis convex to the side of the fracture(s). Awareness of this cause of scoliosis can help in differentiating it from scoliosis caused by other painful abdominal processes, and may aid in recognition of the fracture(s).