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ANSWER
The radiograph shows rib fractures on the left side (arrows); on the same side, there is a moderate-sized pleural effusion—presumably a hemothorax from the trauma.
A closer look at the mid-thoracic spine reveals some irregularity and possible deformity—note the slight offset. This finding is strongly suspicious for a fracture.
A subsequent CT revealed a thoracic burst fracture with retropulsion into the spinal canal.
ANSWER
The radiograph shows rib fractures on the left side (arrows); on the same side, there is a moderate-sized pleural effusion—presumably a hemothorax from the trauma.
A closer look at the mid-thoracic spine reveals some irregularity and possible deformity—note the slight offset. This finding is strongly suspicious for a fracture.
A subsequent CT revealed a thoracic burst fracture with retropulsion into the spinal canal.
ANSWER
The radiograph shows rib fractures on the left side (arrows); on the same side, there is a moderate-sized pleural effusion—presumably a hemothorax from the trauma.
A closer look at the mid-thoracic spine reveals some irregularity and possible deformity—note the slight offset. This finding is strongly suspicious for a fracture.
A subsequent CT revealed a thoracic burst fracture with retropulsion into the spinal canal.
A 20-year-old man is riding a four-wheel all-terrain vehicle at a high rate of speed when he loses control and is thrown off. He is not wearin
As you begin your primary survey, you note a young male who is anxious but awake and able to converse. He is receiving 100% oxygen via a non-rebreather mask. His heart rate is 130 beats/min and his blood pressure, 80/40 mm Hg. Breath sounds are somewhat decreased on the left side. The patient can move both arms, and his strength is normal. However, he is insensate from his mid-chest down and is unable to move his legs at all.
Portable radiographs are obtained, including a chest radiograph (shown). What is your impression?
