Computed Tomography Findings in Traumatic Pneumorachis: A Case Report

The phenomenon of air entering the spinal canal is rare and termed pneumorachis. Due to its rarity, the evaluation and management of pneumorachis have not been well understood. Here, the authors describe a case of pneumorachis associated with pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema,...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: VIVEK RAMESH DADAGA, VAISHALI D MUDABASAPPAGOL
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited 2023-11-01
Series:Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.jcdr.net/articles/PDF/18675/65537_CE[Ra1]_F(SS)_QC&Ref(SHK_IS)_PF1(R1_DK_OM)_KM_PFA_NC(RI_KM)_PN(KM).pdf
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Summary:The phenomenon of air entering the spinal canal is rare and termed pneumorachis. Due to its rarity, the evaluation and management of pneumorachis have not been well understood. Here, the authors describe a case of pneumorachis associated with pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, and traumatic pulmonary injuries in a 21-year-old male patient following blunt chest trauma after a motor vehicle accident. The patient presented with chest pain and difficulty breathing immediately after the vehicle accident, along with a deformed left arm. A bedside Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) scan was performed, followed by a non-contrast CT of the thorax, which revealed intraspinal air and multiple fractures. The patient recovered without any adverse outcomes with conservative management of the intraspinal air. Pneumorachis is usually secondary to trauma and typically follows a benign course with spontaneous resolution after conservative management. It is important to be aware of this condition to identify it early and prevent complications.
ISSN:2249-782X
0973-709X