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Research Paper | Medical Science | India | Volume 13 Issue 10, October 2024 | Popularity: 5.2 / 10

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A Simplified Approach to Imaging Thoracolumbar Spine Injuries with TLICS

Dr. Tarun S, Dr. Chethan TN

Abstract: Background: Thoracolumbar (TL) spine injuries are one of the common entities contributing to morbidity post - trauma. Major complications include transient or permanent neurological damage, spinal cord injury, malunion causing deformities that may further lead to early onset of spondylosis and chronic pain syndrome. TL injuries distinguish themselves from other musculoskeletal injuries by virtue of their unique anatomical configuration. Hence, similar mechanisms of injury can lead to a range of different injury patterns. Aim: This study illuminates the comprehension of the anatomical biomechanics of the thoracolumbar spine, the significance of CT & MRI in conjunction with visual examples of different injuries based on the TLICS score, and an encompassing methodology for scoring these injuries. Methods: A descriptive study involving patients with suspected TL spine injury referred for imaging (CT and /or MRI), a detailed clinical history and examination for neurological status were recorded and TLICS system was applied to manage the patient. Patients with past history of spine surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy were excluded. Conclusion: The assessment of TL spine injuries starts with a clinical neurological evaluation, patient immobilization and imaging. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play pivotal roles in assessing TL spine injuries, ultimately guiding management decisions and prognosis. None of the existing classification systems for spine injuries emphasize on posterior ligamentous complex and neurological status. The Spine Trauma Study Group devised the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) score, incorporating factors like fracture morphology, injury to the posterior ligamentous complex, and clinically evaluated neurological status. It is both a classification and scoring system, helps identify surgical candidates including surgical approach. Hence, the TLICS score stands as a thorough, rapid, dependable, and precise scoring system that every radiologist should integrate into their reports.

Keywords: Thoracolumbar spine, traumatic spine injuries, MDCT, MRI, TLICS

Edition: Volume 13 Issue 10, October 2024

Pages: 950 - 958

DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.21275/ES241010155643

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