Late-onset sternomanubrial dislocation with progressive kyphotic deformity after a thoracic burst fracture.

Abstract

Fractures and dislocations of the sternum may be associated with flexion-compression injuries of the thoracic spine. Sternal injuries most commonly occur at or near the sternomanubrial joint. We present a patient with a known thoracic spine fracture who developed a subsequent late-onset, symptomatic sternomanubrial dislocation and progression of thoracic kyphosis, ultimately requiring operative fixation of both the sternum and the spine. Internal fixation of these sternal injuries should be considered in the setting of a flexion-compression thoracic spine fracture to possibly prevent a worsening kyphosis and neurological decline.