Thoracolumbar Spine

Description

Mr Nick Birch gives his expert insights and provides a comprehensive overview of common thoracolumbar spinal disorders, including degenerative conditions such as disc degeneration and herniation, facet joint arthropathy, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. He discusses the implications of deformities like thoracic idiopathic deformity and their progression in adulthood, especially in postmenopausal women, and highlights how these can lead to degenerative deformities and associated disabilities.



The audio covers the increased incidence of spinal trauma and fractures with age, particularly linked to osteoporosis post-menopause, emphasizing the necessity to consult spinal fracture sections for treatment options. Notably, it elaborates on the types of infections and tumors affecting the spine, with specificity about their benign or malignant nature, and stresses the importance of understanding which cancers potentially metastasize to the bone.



Herniated discs are noted to be less common in the thoracic spine yet can lead to serious complications due to spinal cord involvement, while the typical patterns of pain and neurological symptoms are explained. The narrative underscores the necessity of solid diagnostic practices, including detailed patient history and examinations focused on pain patterns, neurological symptoms, and degrees of spinal deformity.



Furthermore, the use of imaging modalities such as X-rays and MRIs for diagnosing various spinal conditions, alongside surgical and conservative treatment strategies, is thoroughly discussed. The goals of management are clear, aiming to alleviate pain, decompress neurological structures, prevent further deficits through spinal stabilization, and ultimately enhance functional outcomes.




This Expert Insight answers questions asked in our new platform BJJ Life

DOI: 10.1302/3114-251109

Specialties