View source for Thoracic burst fracture

==Background==
*Unstable (usually)

*Mechanism: axial loading with flexion compromising anterior and middle column
*Retropulsion of bone causes damage to the spinal canal and neurologic deficits that often cause stable neurologic deterioration. 
*Can occur with or without injury to posterior elements (posterior involvement increases risk for neuro deficits)
*Be certain not to mistakenly call a burst fracture a wedge fracture

{{Vertebral fractures and dislocations types}}

==Clinical Features==

==Differential Diagnosis==
{{Thoracic trauma DDX}}

==Workup==
*Obtain CT if unsure (vs. wedge)

==Management==
*Consult Orthopedics or Neurosurgery (Institution dependent)
*Depending on neurologic symptoms and features of the fracture- can be managed nonoperatively

==Disposition==

==See Also==
*[[Thoracic and lumbar spine trauma]]
*[[Vertebral burst fractures]]

==External Links==

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Orthopedics]]