Ali Koc

Burst Fractures

A spinal burst fracture involves disruption of both the anterior and middle columns of the vertebral body under axial-compression load. Retropulsion of posterior wall fragments into the spinal canal is typical and may cause neurological injury through direct compression or secondary deformity. The thoracolumbar junction (T11–L2) is most often affected because it transitions from rigid thoracic to mobile lumbar segments. Common mechanisms include falls from height and motor-vehicle accidents.