Thoracic spinous process nonunion as an unusual cause of back pain: a case report and review of the literature
Abstract Background Purely isolated spinous processes fractures are rare and are usually treated conservatively, although a few authors have reported cases of nonunion that ultimately required surgical resection. Case presentation We present a case of an isolated T6 spinous process pseudoarthrosis t...
| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2024-01-01
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| Series: | Journal of Medical Case Reports |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-023-04109-3 |
| Summary: | Abstract Background Purely isolated spinous processes fractures are rare and are usually treated conservatively, although a few authors have reported cases of nonunion that ultimately required surgical resection. Case presentation We present a case of an isolated T6 spinous process pseudoarthrosis that was treated by surgical resection of the tip of the spinous process. A 34-year-old Caucasian male patient was complaining of mid-thoracic back pain without neurologic impairment more than 2 years after an isolated spinous process fracture. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) revealed a nonunion. We performed a resection without further complication. Conclusion Although spinous process nonunions may in some cases be well tolerated, surgical resection appears to be a reliable option in case of persistent symptoms. This illustrated case shows the description of an isolated thoracic spinous process nonunion and its surgical treatment. |
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| ISSN: | 1752-1947 |