Thoracic Fracture Adjacent to Spinal Fusion Following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Case Report

TL;DR

This case report describes a rare thoracic spine fracture in a patient after CPR, highlighting the importance of recognizing such injuries.

Contribution

The paper presents a unique case of a thoracic spine fracture adjacent to a spinal fusion following CPR.

Findings

A T9 thoracic spine fracture with anterior vertebral body distraction occurred after CPR.

Imaging findings and mechanical factors of CPR were analyzed to explain the fracture pattern.

The case highlights the need for awareness of potential spinal injuries following CPR.

Abstract

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), an important life-saving procedure implemented in dire situations, carries a risk of traumatic injuries. One such injury that may arise from the chest compressions performed during CPR is a bone fracture. Although the most commonly involved fracture locations are the ribs and sternum, spinal fractures may also occur. In this case report, the authors share a unique case of a distraction-hyperextension thoracic spine fracture in a patient who had an inferiorly adjacent multilevel spinal fusion and subsequently endured a T9 fracture with anterior vertebral body distraction and intra-vertebral body hematoma formation after CPR. Through this case report, the authors aim to (i) describe the imaging findings of this thoracic spine injury and (ii) convey the pertinent medical history and mechanical factors of CPR that may have contributed to this fracture pattern. Increased awareness of potential spinal injuries from CPR and understanding their mechanism will aid in detection and timely management when evaluating a patient with back pain following CPR.

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