How serious is a transverse process fracture?

Transverse process fractures of the lumbar spine often are considered benign fractures related to direct trauma or psoas muscle avulsion. Treatment of these usually stable injuries is primarily administered when the patient becomes symptomatic.

Are transverse process fractures stable?

The good news is that most transverse process fractures are stable and recover well with rest and short term use of a lumbar brace / support. Being a stable fracture means that they generally don’t require surgery.

How do you treat a transverse fracture?

Transverse Fracture Treatment for a Transverse Fracture: The medical provider will realign the bones through an open reduction internal fixation(ORIF). Once the bone fragments are aligned, a traditional cast or splint will be used to immobilize the bone.

Do transverse process fractures require surgery?

Isolated transverse process fractures do not require surgical intervention or immobilization. Treatment is typically pain control.

Why do transverse fractures take longer to heal?

Transverse fractures heal more slowly than spiral fractures as there is smaller surface area of contact, and these fractures are caused by higher energy injuries often.

How common is transverse process fracture?

In a retrospective study of 216 patients with cervical fractures evaluated by plain films and computed tomography, we found that transverse process fractures were common. Transverse process fractures were present in 24% of patients with cervical fractures and accounted for 13.2% of all cervical fractures.

How long does it take to heal a transverse process fracture?

This injury will take 4 to 6 weeks to heal. It can be treated at home with rest and medicine for pain and swelling. A back brace (called TSLO) or abdominal binder may be prescribed to reduce pain by limiting motion at the fracture site.

How do you sleep with a transverse process fracture?

Stay in bed if advised for the first few days. As soon as your healthcare provider says it is OK, begin sitting up and walking. This helps you avoid problems from prolonged bed rest (muscle weakness, worsening back stiffness and pain, blood clots in the legs). Avoid prolonged sitting.

Does c2 have transverse foramen?

The second cervical vertebra is the axis (Fig. The laminae of the axis are very well developed and blend into a bifid spinous process. Both transverse processes have a transverse foramen for the vertebral arteries. The superior articular facets of the axis articulate with the inferior articular facets of the atlas.