Fracture-dislocation of the fifth lumbar vertebra. A new classification.
We have studied fracture-dislocation of the fifth lumbar vertebra in seven patients and reviewed 50 previously reported cases. Based on this information, we have classified the injury into five types: type 1, unilateral lumbosacral facet-dislocation with or without facet fracture; type 2, bilateral lumbosacral facet-dislocation with or without facet fracture; type 3, unilateral lumbosacral facet-dislocation and contralateral lumbosacral facet fracture; type 4, dislocation of the body of L5 with bilateral fracture of the pars interarticularis; and type 5, dislocation of the body of L5 with fracture of the body and/or pedicle, with or without injury of the lamina and/or facet. Conservative treatment of fracture-dislocation of L5 is generally not effective because the lesion is fundamentally unstable. Planning of the operation should be made on the basis of the various types of injury.
Aihara
T
T
Chiba University, Japan.
Takahashi
K
K
Yamagata
M
M
Moriya
H
H
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy