Epidemiolgy of Multiple Contiguous and Non-contiguous Thoracolumbar Fractures in a Level 1 Trauma Center in Upper Egypt

Abstract

IntroductionMultiple level fractures of the thoracolumbar spine are not uncommon nowadays particularly after increased magnitude of trauma and the availability of screening facilities. However only few studies have reported its descriptive epidemiology. The aim of this study is to analyze the incidence, the characteristics of the patients, surgical incidence and mortality rate among hospitalized patients with multiple level thoracolumbar fractures in a level 1 trauma center in upper Egypt Material and MethodsOut of 471 patients with thoracolumbar fractures admitted in Assiut University Hospital during the year (2014), there were 50 patients with multiple level fractures. The epidemiology of these 50 patients was described and analyzed including the method of treatment, complications and mortality rate. ResultsThere were 21 males and 29 females. The mean age was 28.9+12.8 years. The commonest associated injury was fracture calcaneus in 20 patients. 43 patients had contiguous thoracolumbar fractures while 7 only had non contiguous fractures. The commonest mechanism of injury was falling from height in 41 patients.42 patients were neurologically free. 6 patients were treated conservatively while 44 patients received surgical treatment. ConclusionTreatment for the multilevel thoracolumbar fractures must follow the same guidelines for treatment as for the isolated fracture in the majority of circumstance; however, it requires particular attention and must be individualized.