Imaging of trauma: Part 1, Pseudotrauma of the spine--osseous variants that may simulate injury.

Abstract

Anatomic variants and incomplete ossification and fusion of the developing spine may result in an erroneous diagnosis of injury or disease. This article reviews some of the more common imaging findings that may present as pseudotrauma. Normal development of the spine is reviewed, including synchondroses and ossification centers. Imaging of common variants is presented, with a focus on CT. Recognition of the normal developing spine and variants can prevent an incorrect diagnosis of injury and inappropriate treatment.