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Spinal compression fracture - L1

Case contributed by Bruno Di Muzio
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fall from height a week ago.

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Female

CT Lumbar spine

ct

Burst fracture L1. Schmorl node on L4 lower plate, likely chronic. 

Case Discussion

The L1 compression fracture in this elderly patient is presumably osteoporotic related, given the history of a low energy mechanism. 

Schmorl nodes refer to protrusions of the cartilage of the intervertebral disc through the vertebral body endplate and into the adjacent vertebra.

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