Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traumatic spondyloptosis is a rare and severe spinal injury characterized by complete anterior translation of one vertebra over another, often resulting in debilitating neurological deficits. CASE PRESENTATION: We present two cases of traumatic spondyloptosis and elaborate on the clinical presentation, management, and follow-up improvement. The first case is a 30-year-old Nepalese man who sustained traumatic spondyloptosis following a blunt force injury to his back while engaged in tree-cutting activities. The patient presented with severe back pain, left lower limb paralysis, and neurological deficits (consistent with American Spinal Injury Association grade C). Radiographic evaluation revealed total anterior dislocation of the L4 vertebral body over L5, accompanied by fractures of the superior endplates of both vertebrae. The second case is a 35-year-old Nepalese female who presented with back pain and lower limb paralysis following a fall from a 300-m cliff, exhibiting tenderness and ecchymosis in the mid-back region. Radiological examination revealed D12 vertebra translation over L1 with fracture, categorized as American Spinal Injury Association grade A. Both cases were surgically managed and stabilized. CONCLUSION: These cases emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to trauma management as well as prompt recognition, and early surgical management in optimizing outcomes for patients with traumatic spondyloptosis.
Source: Journal of Medical Case Reports
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,790
OpenAlex ID: W4403258943