| Compression fracture | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Example of vertebral compression fracture. | |
| Specialty | Orthopedic |
A compression fracture is a collapse of a vertebra. It may be due to trauma or due to a weakening of the vertebra (compare with burst fracture). This weakening is seen in patients with osteoporosis or osteogenesis imperfecta, lytic lesions from metastatic or primary tumors,[1] or infection.[2] In healthy patients, it is most often seen in individuals suffering extreme vertical shocks, such as ejecting from an ejection seat. Seen in lateral views in plain x-ray films, compression fractures of the spine characteristically appear as wedge deformities, with greater loss of height anteriorly than posteriorly and intact pedicles in the anteroposterior view.[3]
- ^ Weber, Kristy (February 28, 2006). "Rounds 2: Treatment of Metastatic Bone Disease". Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center.
- ^ "Bone Infections". MedlinePlus. September 7, 2011.
- ^ Brant, William E.; Helms, Clyde A. (2007). "Benign Compression Fracture". Fundamentals of Diagnostic Radiology (3rd ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p. 302. ISBN 978-0-7817-6135-2.