Types of Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures can vary widely in both severity and type of fracture. The fracture itself is often determined by the forces which cause the fracture, as well as the bones ultimately affected. Throughout this brief, yet informative guide, we’ll go over the different types of spinal fractures and how to recognize said features based on the severity of injury. We’ll also discuss the necessary treatment protocols and approaches we will likely have to take to ensure a full, healthy recovery. Should you have any immediate questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us; we will respond to your message as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you soon and we hope you find this information helpful.
Burst Fracture
A burst fracture typically occurs when there’s an extreme amount of force in the form of an axial load drives the bone fragmentation outwards. This type of fracture is quite common in high-energy distribution events such as car accidents. These fractures can be quite severe in many cases, even if you don’t initially notice the pain or discomfort. In worst case scenarios, there could even be damage to the spinal cord, requiring immediate medical intervention. While this is rare, it’s still very important to have a thorough examination performed on your neck, back, and spine if you’re ever involved in a car accident to identify possible fractures or other injuries.
Dislocation
Spinal dislocation may occur when the ligaments and discs which connect the corresponding vertebrae are damaged or stretched beyond capability. This in turn will likely cause a misalignment of sorts. Dislocation can occur with or without a fracture, but it’s still important to note, as this may be a source of your pain and discomfort.
Flexion-Distraction Fractures
Flexion-distraction fractures are commonly known as “seatbelt injuries”. These types of spinal fractures occur most commonly in car accidents where the upper body is jolted forward (distracted) during a sudden motion event.
Crush Fracture
A crush fracture is quite simply what it sounds like: a collapse of the bone itself under severe weight or pressure. This spinal fracture is commonly seen in osteoporotic patients, as their bones are much less dense and therefore more sensitive to impact.
Pathological Fracture
Pathological fractures will typically occur when there’s an underlying, preexisting condition which is weakening the bone itself. This underlying condition may make the bone much more susceptible to breaks under what would otherwise be considered normal amounts of stress.
Avulsion Fracture
An avulsion fracture occurs when a fragment of the bone is torn away from the primary mass of the bone itself by a tendon or ligament. An avulsion fracture is often the result of a sudden, strong pull on the specific area which is affected.
Vertebral Compression Fracture
Vertebral compression fractures occur when the vertebral body collapses. This condition is commonly seen in osteoporosis patients, leading to noticeable changes in posture; ultimately leading to severe levels of pain.
Complete Fracture
A complete fracture is when the bone is broken the way through, leading to noticeable instability in the spine.
Stable Spinal Fractures
A stable spinal fracture does not produce a deformity or neurological deficits. It often involves the vertebral body without compromising the structural integrity of the spine itself.
Unstable Spinal Fractures
An unstable spinal fracture will involve both the anterior and posterior columns of the spine and will likely pose a significant level of risk with spinal cord injury and instability.
Minor Spinal Fracture
A minor spinal fracture is when there’s a small, hairline fracture which does not typically involve major bone displacement or spinal instability.
Major Spinal Fracture
A major spinal fracture will often involve significant structural damage to the vertebrae. This will likely lead to spinal instability, severe pain, and true risk to the spinal cord via said injury.
How to Classify Spinal Fractures
Anterior (Front) Column Spinal Fractures
An anterior (front) column spinal fracture affects the front half of vertebrae. This fracture is assessed and diagnosed based on the overall impact on the stability and alignment of the spine.
Middle Column Spinal Fractures
Middle column spinal fractures present a unique scenario, as the middle column of the spine is where the stability within the spine originates from. If there’s a spinal fracture in the middle column, you’re likely to have much more pain, discomfort, and instability.
Posterior (Back) Column Spinal Fractures
A posterior column spinal fracture will often involve the vertebral arch and ligaments, which in turn will affect the overall stability and neurological processes within the spine and body.
Contact Us at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants
If you or someone you know is dealing with a spinal injury, it’s very important to receive the necessary care and rehabilitation to be back on track to health and wellness.. Contact us at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants to schedule your appointment. We’ll take the time to properly assess the condition and determine the next steps to have the best possible outcomes. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.