Description

Spinal trauma results from significant physical injury sustained as a result of high energy impacts or falls. Motor vehicle accidents and common falls account for a large portion of spinal trauma. These injuries can lead to compression of one or more vertebrae. Weakened bones (osteoporosis) can also lead to fracture at a low level of trauma. A traumatic episode can result in the sudden onset of back pain.

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Symptoms

• Back pain after an incident

• Weakness or numbness

• Paralysis

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Causes

• High energy impact trauma

• Motor vehicle accident

• Falls

• Weakened bones (Osteoporosis)

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Possible Treatment Options

• Non Operative Treatment

Pain medications, patience, and bracing are sometimes needed. Surgery may be considered for those who do not improve.

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• Lumbar Vertebral Body Replacement

If a vertebral body has been severely fractured in a traumatic event, the entire vertebral body may be replaced with a stabilized metal cage or bone strut. Instrumentation anchored to the surrounding vertebral bodies stabilizes the construct.

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• Decompression

This surgical procedure involves removing all or a portion of the lamina, removing bone spurs and/or enlarging the foramen to relieve pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord.

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• Posterolateral Fusion

Often times, in addition to a decompression, your surgeon will perform an instrumented posterolateral fusion by inserting a series of rods and screws coupled with the placement of bone graft. This fusion provides increased spinal stability depending on the severity of the injury.

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For more information on Trauma, visit UnderstandSpineSurgery.com.