Case Study: Surgical Management of Lumbar Spine Fracture

Patient Profile A 40-year-old male presented with a traumatic injury to the lumbar spine.

Diagnostic Imaging Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine (sagittal T2-weighted view) revealed a significant fracture of a mid-lumbar vertebral body (likely L3). The scan demonstrated a loss of vertebral height and structural compromise typical of a burst fracture, with potential risk to the spinal canal elements.

Intervention The patient underwent surgical stabilization to restore column integrity and prevent neurological deterioration. Post-operative plain radiographs (AP and Lateral views) display a posterior spinal fixation construct. Pedicle screws and connecting rods were successfully implanted spanning three vertebral levels, effectively bridging and stabilizing the fractured segment.

Clinical Outcome At the two-month post-operative follow-up, the patient’s recovery is excellent. He is classified as ASIA Grade E according to the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale. This classification denotes “Normal” function, meaning the patient exhibits full motor and sensory function with no neurological deficits. The hardware appears well-positioned with restored spinal alignment, and the patient is clinically stable (“ok now”), marking a successful surgical and functional recovery.