Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures

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Abstract

Ten to twenty percent of all thoracolumbar spine fractures are burst fractures. Burst fractures are typically a result of an axial-loading mechanism, such as from jumping or a fall from height. In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of the different classification systems for thoracolumbar fractures, including the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classification system and Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) score. The various treatment options, both surgical and nonsurgical, are discussed, including criteria for when surgical intervention is warranted. The authors discuss the various surgical approaches for treatment of these fractures and their relative efficacies and outcomes. Finally, the authors review the evidence, outcomes, and potential complications of the various treatment options in order to aid the surgeon in their decision-making when these fractures are encountered in their practice.