The coexistence of spinal canal stenosis in fragility fractures of the spine

Abstract

In trauma care of fragility fractures of the spine, degenerative stenosis is often seen as an accompanying pathology. This may lead to apossible compression of neurogenic structures. The stenosis of the spinal canal can manifest itself with clinically significant complaints before the fracture occurs. This coexistence may have an impact on the injury itself or may provoke acomplicated treatment of the fracture. The aim of this work is to differentiate these pathophysiologies and their merger in terms of clinical diagnostics and treatment options. The differential diagnosis is difficult and is often inadequately appreciated in everyday clinical life. The etiology and pathophysiology of both entities show, in several aspects, acongruence that enables joint treatment. If the indication is set for the decompression of astenosing fracture, apre-existing relevant stenosis can be addressed in the same session. Conversely, significant degenerative stenosis accompanying afracture may lead to the indication of decompression.