synonyms: TP fracture
Tranverse Process Fracture ICD-10
Tranverse Process Fracture ICD-9
- 805 Fracture of vertebral column without mention of spinal cord injury
Tranverse Process Fracture Etiology / Epidemiology / Natural History
- Generally caused by direct trauma or avulsions from intense muscular contraction.
- Associated with football and other collision sports.
Tranverse Process Fracture Anatomy
Tranverse Process Fracture Clinical Evaluation
- Tenderness over the affected transvere process. May have scoliosis or a relative kyphosisshortness from trying to find a comfortable position.
- Occasional shortness of breath or painful respirations.
Tranverse Process Fracture Xray / Diagnositc Tests
- A/P and lateral views of the affected level of the spine indicated.
- CT scan indicated to rule out associated spinal fractures
Tranverse Process Fracture Classification / Treatment
- Isolated Transverse process fracture: CT scan indicated to rule out associated injury. If CT confirms isolated injury lateral flexion/extension views are indicated to rule out dynamic instability. If normal mobilize as tolerated. Initial cold therapy followed by a program of tissue massage, moist heat, and stretching starting at 24-48 hours. Consider antispasmodic medications.
- Transverse process fracture with associated spine injury: treatment is determined per associated injury.
Tranverse Process Fracture Associated Injuries / Differential Diagnosis
- Intraabdominal injury
- Spine fracture
- Nerve root avulsion at the same level
Tranverse Process Fracture Complications
- Misssed associated abdominal / spine injury.
Tranverse Process Fracture Follow-up Care
- Symptomatic. No bracing or activity restrictions are required for isolated TP fractures.
- Consider protection of the area to avoid repeated trauma in athletes. Consider a flak jacket or simple padding in a football players.
- Return to sport: when patient has normal painfree thoracic motion.
Tranverse Process Fracture Review References
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