This chapter discusses each unique anatomic region and its associated ligamentous and osseous injuries. Elucidation of the surgical anatomy, review of surgical techniques with associated pearls and pitfalls, and general postoperative rehabilitation protocols are presented. Evidence-based reviews of outcomes based…
Acetabular fractures are uncommon and complex injuries usually resulting from high-energy traumatic events or lower energy mechanisms associated with osteopenia. The rarity of these fractures makes it difficult for most physicians to become familiar with them. These injuries challenge even…
Introduction The pelvis is a key component of the axial skeleton that links the lower extremities with the rest of the body through the lumbosacral spine. Its ringlike structure allows it to surround and protect important inner organs, such as…
Introduction Spinal orthotics are used to immobilize the spine, to stabilize the spinal column, to protect the neural elements, and to assist in fracture healing. There are many orthotic options available depending on the type of spinal injury and location.…
Introduction Complications and adverse events in the management of spinal trauma can occur in any organ system. Avoidance and prevention of these complications requires multidisciplinary knowledge in spine and spinal cord injury (SCI) management. Unfortunately, there is no consensus in…
Introduction Osteoporosis is a common disease that is characterized by structural deterioration of bone architecture and manifests as fragility fractures occurring at multiple skeletal sites, most commonly involving the spine, hip, or wrist. It is increasingly recognized that osteoporosis is…
Introduction In general, nonosteoporotic spinal fractures are the result of high-impact trauma and may be associated with spinal cord injuries. However, trauma physicians should be extra aware of the ankylotic spine because stiff ankylotic spines can fracture with lower forces,…
The transition from the kyphotic, rigid thoracic spine to the mobile, lordotic lumbar spine creates a biomechanically favorable location for burst fractures. Thoracolumbar burst fractures are a common injury, and there exists a broad range of classifications and treatment algorithms…
Introduction The subaxial cervical spine is composed of the C3 through C7 vertebrae. Epidemiologic studies have shown that cervical spine fractures or dislocations occur in 2% to 3% of trauma patients. However, injuries to the subaxial cervical spine account for…
Introduction Fractures of the axis are diverse with many patterns having varying prognoses; they include odontoid or dens fractures, traumatic spondylolisthesis of the axis (better known as the hangman's fracture), and poorly characterized axis body fractures. Fractures of the odontoid…