Hyperextension fracture-dislocation of the thoracic spine

Characterization of a novel bidirectional distraction spinal cord injury animal model

“…Since the human thoracic spine contains 12 vertebral segments and averages 28 cm in length (Liljenqvist et al, 2002;Panjabi et al, 1991;Sucato and Duchene, 2003), if extrapolated, such separation approximates 46 mm in adult humans, a defect which will require forces normally not applied during scoliosis distraction and spine instrumentation and which is unlikely to occur during surgery. The severity of the 7 mm distraction in the rat better resembles shear fracture-dislocations of the thoracic and lumbar spine associated with forceful hyperextension (i.e., Lumberjack Paraplegia) (Denis and Burkus, 1992;Erb et al, 1995).…”

Abusive Pediatric Thoracolumbar Fracture Due to Forced Hyperextension: Case Report, Biomechanical Considerations, and Review of the Literature

“…Distraction of the spine is defined by failure of the posterior and middle columns under tension force generated by violent anterior flexion (5,36). The chance fracture describes one subtype of this injury where the fracture is propagated through the bony components of the posterior column and the most anterior portion of the anterior column functions as a hinge and may also suffer anterior column compression injury as a result of hyperflexion (37).…”

“…9). This injury was previously known as "lumberjack paraplegia" due to its occurrence among timber workers being hit by falling trees (37,53). Because the anterior spinal column is, in part, supported by significant musculature (e.g., muscles of the abdominal wall), these injuries require substantial force typically not seen in low energy trauma.…”