Diagnosis of subtle thoracolumbar burst fractures. A new radiographic sign
McGrory, B.J.; VanderWilde, R.S.; Currier, B.L.; Eismont, F.J.
Spine 18(15): 2282-2285
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0362-2436 PMID: 8278847 Document Number: 412670
A previously undescribed radiographic sign, the posterior vertebral body angle is successful in distinguishing subtle burst type fractures from compression fractures of the thoracolumbar spine. Correct diagnosis is imperative for proper treatment and accurate prognosis. When positive, this sign will alert the orthopaedist so that further diagnostic testing with computed tomography or sagittal tomograms may be performed. The sensitivity of this sign in diagnosing subtle burst type injuries is 75%.