Flexion teardrop fracture

Lore & Background

The flexion teardrop fracture is defined by a fracture of the anteroinferior corner of a cervical vertebral body, continuing sagittally through the body. It is accompanied by deformity of the vertebral body and subluxation or dislocation of the facet joints at the injured level. This fracture is typically unstable, involving all elements of the spine at that level.

Reader's Guide

The flexion teardrop fracture is a critical injury in spinal trauma due to its high association with spinal cord injury, particularly anterior cord syndrome. It commonly occurs at the C4-C7 vertebrae and results from a combination of flexion and vertical axial compression. The fracture's instability and the displacement of the posterior vertebral body into the spinal canal often lead to neurological deficits. Distinguishing this fracture from the extension teardrop fracture is essential, as the latter occurs at C2 or C3, involves less disruption to middle and posterior elements, and rarely causes spinal cord injury. Understanding the mechanism and implications of the flexion teardrop fracture guides clinical management and underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and stabilization to prevent further neurological compromise.

Did You Know?

• A flexion teardrop fracture involves a fracture of the anteroinferior aspect of a cervical vertebral body.
• It results from flexion of the spine along with vertical axial compression.
• The fracture is associated with subluxation or dislocation of the facet joints at the injured level.
• It is usually associated with spinal cord injury, often from displacement of the posterior vertebral body into the spinal canal.