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European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery

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Open Access 01-08-2021 | Review Article

Current treatment and outcomes of traumatic sternovertebral fractures: a systematic review

Authors: Dorine S. Klei, F. Cumhur Öner, Luke P. H. Leenen, Karlijn J. P. van Wessem

Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery | Issue 4/2021

Abstract

Purpose

Combined sternal and spinal fractures are rare traumatic injuries with significant risk of spinal and thoracic wall instability. Controversy remains with regard to treatment strategies and the biomechanical need for sternal fixation to achieve spinal healing. The present study aimed to assess outcomes of sternovertebral fracture treatment.

Methods

A systematic review of literature on the treatment of traumatic sternovertebral fractures was conducted. Original studies published after 1990, reporting sternal and spinal healing or stability were included. Studies not reporting treatment outcomes were excluded.

Results

Six studies were included in this review, with a total study population of 98 patients: 2 case series, 3 case reports, and 1 retrospective cohort study. 10 per cent of sternal fractures showed displacement. Most spinal fractures were located in the thoracic spine and were AOSpine type A (51%), type B (35%), or type C (14%). 14 per cent of sternal fractures and 49% of spinal fractures were surgically treated. Sternal treatment failure occurred in 5% of patients and biomechanical spinal failure in 8%. There were no differences in treatment failure between conservative and operative treatment.

Conclusion

Literature on traumatic sternovertebral fracture treatment is sparse. Findings indicate that in most patients, sternal fixation is not required to achieve sternal and spinal stability. However, results of the current review should be cautiously interpreted, since most included studies were of poor quality.

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Title: Current treatment and outcomes of traumatic sternovertebral fractures: a systematic review
Authors: Dorine S. Klei
F. Cumhur Öner
Luke P. H. Leenen
Karlijn J. P. van Wessem
Publication date: 01-08-2021
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery / Issue 4/2021
Print ISSN: 1863-9933
Electronic ISSN: 1863-9941
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-020-01505-y

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Current treatment and outcomes of traumatic sternovertebral fractures: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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