Article ID: 5495-25
The patient was an 89-year-old woman who suddenly collapsed in a hospital cafeteria. Responding medical personnel determined that the patient was in cardiac arrest. After advanced cardiac support, the patient regained spontaneous circulation. Chest compressions were continued for approximately 15 min, and the computed tomographic scan revealed kyphosis, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, an extension fracture of the second lumbar vertebra, and a large right Gerota's intrafascial hematoma. This case illustrates the need to consider alternative methods of chest compression to prevent spinal extension fractures and related complications when an elderly individual with a kyphotic spine experiences cardiac arrest.
