OBJECTIVE

To review imaging patterns and injury mechanisms in patients with thoracolumbar facet instability (TFI).

METHODS

Imaging studies for thoracolumbar osseous injuries over a 2-year period were reviewed. Imaging findings, injury pattern and reported mechanism of injury were established for patients with TFI.

METHODS

One hundred and ten patients with thoracolumbar acute, osseous injuries were studied.

RESULTS

Eleven of 68 (16.2%) unstable thoracolumbar injuries demonstrated TFI. Seven (64%) of the eleven TFI patients were unrestrained occupants in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) and the remainder were involved in injuries dominated by blunt impact to the back. Only two (18%) had serious, permanent neurological deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

TFI is a common injury pattern, particularly for unrestrained occupants in MVAs. Characteristic radiographic, CT and MRI findings are presented and correlated with the injury mechanism and clinical findings.