Transverse Process Fracture

FACTS

  • can be clinically impactful in two regions of the spine
    • T1-2: brachial plexus injuries
    • L4-5: lumbosacral plexus injuries

HPI

  • standard trauma history

PHYSICAL EXAM

  • standard trauma exam w/ complete spine exam
  • evaluate for TTP
  • can patient stand (if not polytrauma)

IMAGING

CT pan-spine
A/P
  • SSXR for baseline alignment
  • No bracing generally in absence of other ligamentous or bony injury
  • Follow-up is attending dependent
 

examples

CT axial: L C7 TP fracture
CT axial: L C7 TP fracture