Thoracolumbar fracture dislocation (AO type C injury): clinical advances in surgical reduction

doi:10.3877/cma.j.issn.2096-0263.2026.04.008

Abstract

Abstract:

Thoracolumbar fracture-dislocation (AO-type C injury) is usually caused by high-energy trauma resulting in three-column spinal injury, and represents the most severe type of spinal fracture. Characterized by flexion- or distraction-type injury, it is frequently accompanied by multi-directional shear forces, which contribute to great difficulty in surgical reduction and a high risk of dural tear injury. At present, most available literature on the surgical management of AO-type C injuries consists mainly of case reports, and reduction techniques for AO-type C injuries at different spinal levels and with different injury mechanisms are still under continuous exploration. Therefore, this article reviews the latest advances in the surgical treatment of AO-type C injuries, with an emphasis on surgical reduction techniques. Meanwhile, a flow chart for individualized reduction techniques is proposed to provide references for surgeons.

Key words: Thoracolumbar fracture dislocation, AO type C injury, Timing of surgery, Reduction, Spinal cord injury

Hao Xue, Wei Dai, Guanzhong Wang, Chengbo Hu, Fei Luo, Chengmin Zhang. Thoracolumbar fracture dislocation (AO type C injury): clinical advances in surgical reduction[J]. Chinese Journal of Geriatric Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation(Electronic Edition), 2026, 12(04): 250-256.

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References 51

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