We report a case of dural laceration occurring with lumbar burst fractures which was suggested by preoperative MRI and confirmed by Surgery.
The patient was a 37-year-old man who fell from a 6m height while working and was transported to our hospital. Plain X-ray studies showed burst and laminar fractures of the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae. However, only slight numbness was noted in the left dorsal femoral reqion. Since preoperative MRI suggested dural laceration, posterior decompression and fixation with pedicle screws were performed and the patient's postoperative course was uneventful.
Surgical treatment is indicated for thoracolumbar burst fractures especially when accompanied by neurological symptoms or shows marked instability. However, dural laceration may be present even though neurological symptoms are unremarkable as in the present case. Preoperative detection of dural laceration is considered to be important for selection of appropriate treatment.
