Thoracic Fracture-Dislocation with Complete Vertebral Body Translation and Spinal Cord Transection

CASE: A 46-year-old man suffered thoracic spine fracture dislocation in a motorcycle accident, presenting with complete lower extremity paralysis. Imaging revealed a T8 vertebral dislocation and complete spinal cord transection. Urgent surgery approximately 36 hours postinjury included posterior fixation, bone grafting, duraplasty, and spinal cord stump-plasty. Postoperatively, his neurological status remained unchanged. Minimal cerebrospinal fluid leakage resolved; no other major complications developed. He is stable and mobile through a wheelchair. CONCLUSION: Prompt surgical stabilization and dural repair can be essential to prevent life-threatening complications in complete thoracic spinal cord transection. This case illustrates 1 possible management strategy for this exceptionally severe and rare injury pattern.