title: [Thoracolumbar injuries: pathomorphology of and a new classification].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To introduce a new classification of thoracolumbar injuries.
  
  
  METHODS
  Three modes were used to classify the injuries according to the mechanisms of injuries: Type A, flexion-compression fractures; Type B, vertical compression fractures; Type C, distraction injuries. Two groups were used to distinguish the fractures in one type according to the pathomorphological differences and the clinical incidence: Group A, with a more clinical incidence, and Group B, with a less clinical incidence. Three subgroups were used to divide the injuries in one group in consideration of the severity of the fracture instability and the fracture displacement: fracture, subluxation, and dislocation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A new classification of thoracolumbar fractures was established.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The new classification is more systemic and more convenient.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, First Military Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Jin
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Yang
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Yu
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: Z
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Shi
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000145:classification* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed