Transverse Process Fracture
Definition
A transverse process fracture is a break in 1 or more transverse process. These are wing-like bones on the right and left side of each vertebra in the spine.
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Causes
These fractures are caused by trauma from:
- Falls
- Car, motorcycle, or pedestrian accidents
- Severe and sudden twisting or bending
- Severe blows to the back and spine
- Violence, such as a gunshot
Risk Factors
Older adults are at higher risk. Things that may increase the chance of a spinous process fracture are:
- Having health problems that weaken bones, such as osteoporosis
- Low muscle mass
- Playing sports that involve sudden twists and turns or extreme contact
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Being around violence
Symptoms
These fractures can happen at any place in the spinal column. They may cause:
- Severe pain that may be worse when moving
- Swelling and bruising
- Numbness, tingling, or weak muscles
- Problems moving the injured part of the spine
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You will also be asked how the injury happened. A physical exam will be done. It will also look for nerve damage.
Images may be taken to look at your spine. This can be done with:
Treatment
Treatment will depend on how severe the injury is. It may take up to 6 weeks to heal.
Bone Support
The spine will need to be supported as it heals. A back brace can help keep a minor fracture in place while it heals.
Surgery
People with a severe fracture may need surgery. Screws, rods, wires, or cages will be used to reconnect bone pieces and hold them in place.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation may be needed. It will include exercises to keep muscles strong and help with range of motion.
Prevention
Most fractures happen due to accidents. Healthy bones and muscles may prevent injury. This may be done through diet and exercise.
RESOURCES:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov
Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://orthoinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org
Spinal Cord Injury Canada
http://spinalcordinjurycanada.ca
REFERENCES:
Fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00368. Updated September 2015. Accessed September 19, 2019.
Marek AP, Morancy JD, et al. Long-Term Functional Outcomes after Traumatic Thoracic and Lumbar Spine Fractures. Am Surg. 2018 Jan 1;84(1):20-27.
Spinal trauma—emergency management. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:https://www.dynamed.com/management/spinal-trauma-emergency-management. Accessed September 19, 2019.
Last reviewed September 2019 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Teresa Briedwell, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS Last Updated: 5/6/2020