The topic Thoracic Compression Fractures you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Fractures of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine.

Quick Summary:

• A Fracture of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine is a break or crack that occurs in two of the three vertebral columns of the spine, called the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. The other vertebral column is the cervical vertebrae
• The most common fractures in the spine occur at the thoracic (mid-back) region, lumbar spine (lower back) region, or at the connection of the thoracic and lumbar vertebral columns (thoracolumbar junction)
• Spinal fractures, also known as vertebral compression fractures, are very common injuries in elderly adults who have osteoporosis; a condition that weakens the bones. These are always serious injuries that require immediate surgical treatment
• The long-term prognosis of Thoracic and Lumbar Spinal Fractures depends on the severity of the injury, the amount of residual deformity, and the extent of neurological damage

There are different types of spinal fractures. Physicians categorize Fractures of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine based on the injury pattern and if a spinal cord injury has occurred. Categorizing the fracture patterns may help determine the appropriate treatment. Flexion, extension, and rotation are the three major types of spinal fracture patterns.

Flexion Fracture Pattern:

• Compression fracture: When the front (anterior) of the vertebra breaks, it partially or fully collapses the vertebra. Compression fractures are usually stable and rarely associated with neurologic disorders. These fractures are usually caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or tumors
• Axial burst fracture: A type of compression fracture that occurs when the vertebra breaks due to high-energy trauma such as a car accident or fall from a significant height. These fractures are usually more serious injuries due to the long-term neurological damage that may result

Extension Fracture Pattern:

• Flexion/Distraction (Chance) Fracture: These types of fractures occur when the vertebrae are pulled apart, usually as the result of a head-on car accident in which the upper body propels forward, and the lower body stays in place, held by a seat belt

Rotation Fracture Pattern:

• Transverse process fracture: An uncommon fracture that result from extreme rotation or lateral bending
• Fracture-dislocation: An unstable injury that occurs when a vertebra is displaced from an adjacent vertebra, which frequently severely compresses the spinal cord

Please find comprehensive information on Fractures of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.