Traumatic Complete Lateral Dislocation at the Lumbosacral Junction

Abstract

This is a case report. To present a novel case of lumbosacral dislocation and its surgical management. Complete lumbosacral dislocations are rare injuries that ensue as a result of high-energy trauma. Anatomic stabilization of these injuries can be challenging and often involves open fixation and arthrodesis. We present the case of a 22-year-old male who was involved in a high-velocity motorcycle accident with neurological deficit in the lower extremities. Radiographic analysis demonstrated a complete lateral dislocation of L5 vertebral body over the sacrum. The patient was surgically managed with a combined anterior and posterior arthrodesis, posterior decompression, and instrumentation. Successful arthrodesis and spinal alignment was achieved. The patient regained partial neurological function in the lower extremities with an improved Visual Analogue Scale score of 1 and was able to ambulate semi-independently at latest follow-up. A combined anterior and posterior arthrodesis with decompression and instrumentation is an effective method for the treatment of this type of lumbosacral dislocation.