Table of Contents
How is a spinal fracture diagnosed?
CT Scans. If an X-ray image reveals a spine compression fracture and a doctor needs to see the spine in more detail, he or she may recommend a CT scan. CT scans use a series of X-rays to create two- and three-dimensional images of the spine so that doctors can examine the fractured bone from many angles.
Which fracture commonly occurs in the back?
Fractures caused by osteoporosis most often occur in the spine. Spinal fractures — called vertebral compression fractures — occur an estimated 1.5 million times each year in the United States. They are almost twice as common as other fractures typically linked to osteoporosis, such as broken hips and wrists.
What is used most commonly to determine a potential spinal fracture?
CT is considered the best modality for evaluating spinal fractures. CT allows the clinician to evaluate the spine in three planes to properly grade the extent of pathology. CT can also be used to guide toward a DEXA scan. [14] An MRI can show the relationship between bony structures, soft tissues, and acuity.
What is the difference between a burst fracture and a compression fracture?
A compression fracture is a condition in which a vertebra is crushed only in the front part of the spine, causing a wedge shape. If a vertebra is crushed in all directions, the condition is called a burst fracture. Burst fractures are much more severe than compression fractures.
Will an MRI show a fractured spine?
An MRI scan shows a high level of detail of the soft tissues (e.g. nerves, discs) surrounding the fracture that may be affected. An MRI scan can also tell if the fracture is old or new.
How do you diagnose a compression fracture?
Compression Fracture Diagnosis
- Bone Density Test (if osteoporosis is suspected)
- X-ray.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography Scan (CT or CAT scan)
How serious is a lumbar fracture?
A fracture of the thoracic or lumbar spine causes moderate to severe back pain that is worsened with movement. If the spinal cord or nerves are involved, the patient may experience bowel/bladder dysfunction along with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs.
How serious is a spinal compression fracture?
What are possible complications of a compression fracture? Complications of compression fractures include: Fractured bones that do not heal after treatment, which can lead to damage of the nearby vertebrae. Blood clots in the legs due to decreased mobility.
What is an unstable fracture of the spine?
Unstable fractures make it difficult for the spine to carry and distribute weight. Unstable fractures have a chance of progressing and causing further damage. They may also cause spinal deformity.
What happens if a fracture is left untreated?
When a bone fracture is untreated, it can result in either a nonunion or a delayed union. In the former case, the bone doesn’t heal at all, which means that it will remain broken. As a result, swelling, tenderness, and pain will continue to worsen over time.
What does thoracic xray show?
A thoracic spine X-ray is an imaging test used to inspect any problems with the bones in the middle of your back. An X-ray uses small amounts of radiation to see the organs, tissues, and bones of your body. Along with your vertebrae, your spine also has discs of cartilage that pad the spaces between the bones.
What diagnosed disorder was the primary cause of this patient’s compression fractures?
Osteoporosis is the leading cause of vertebral compression fractures.