Dietrich G, Richard R, Akiki A, Levy S, Maeder B. Thoracic spinous process nonunion as an unusual cause of back pain: a case report and review of the literature.
J Med Case Rep 2024;
18:11. [PMID:
38167123 PMCID:
PMC10762786 DOI:
10.1186/s13256-023-04109-3]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Purely isolated spinous processes fractures are rare and are usually treated conservatively, although a few authors have reported cases of nonunion that ultimately required surgical resection.
CASE PRESENTATION
We present a case of an isolated T6 spinous process pseudoarthrosis that was treated by surgical resection of the tip of the spinous process. A 34-year-old Caucasian male patient was complaining of mid-thoracic back pain without neurologic impairment more than 2 years after an isolated spinous process fracture. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) revealed a nonunion. We performed a resection without further complication.
CONCLUSION
Although spinous process nonunions may in some cases be well tolerated, surgical resection appears to be a reliable option in case of persistent symptoms. This illustrated case shows the description of an isolated thoracic spinous process nonunion and its surgical treatment.
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