Abstract
Introduction
Compression fracture of the vertebral body is common, especially in older adults.
Injuries to the spinal column are one of the most frequent injuries by accidents and
falls from heights. Vertebral fracture associated with minor trauma, however, is a
rare occasion.
Case Report
Five cases were injured in the inner city buses after passing onto speed bumps are
presented. On presentation, four patients complained of severe pain in the thoracolumbar
region, while in the other patient, physical examination revealed pain and tenderness
on the neck. No neurologic deficit was noted except for one patient with tenderness
on thoracic spines. Examination of the thoracolumbar X-ray and computed tomography
displayed compression fractures in four patients. Other laboratory data obtained on
admission were within normal limits. Posterior instrumentation was applied to three
patients. All patients recovered well except for the one with cervical fracture.
Conclusion
Drivers should be strongly warned and educated on the potential hazards of traversing
past such bumps in roads too fast and such barriers should be built regarding tested
standards.
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References
- Speed control humps built on the roads. Institution of Turkish Standards. TS 6283.December 1988 ([in Turkish])
- Osteoporosis.JAMA. 1984; 252: 799-802
- Vertebral deformities and the underlying diseases.Orv Hetil. 2003; 144: 1955-1963
- Flexion-distraction injuries of the lumbar spine: mechanism of injury and classification.Clin Orthop. 1988; 227: 52-60
- Flexion-distraction injuries of the thoracolumbar spine.Orthopaedics. 1992; 15: 357-364
Article Info
Publication History
Accepted:
December 29,
2004
Received:
December 28,
2004
Identification
Copyright
© 2005 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
