Anterior lumbosacral dislocation: case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND

Anterior lumbosacral dislocation is a rare traumatic anterior spondylolisthesis.

METHODS

We report a new case surgically treated and review the eight cases previously reported.

RESULTS

The mechanism of injury is hyperflexion-distraction. Neurological signs are inconsistent. Indirect radiological signs such as bilateral multiple transverse process fractures are strongly suggestive of the diagnosis. This complete soft tissue injury induces a definitive instability and requires an open reduction with posterior fixation.

CONCLUSIONS

Suspicion of lumbosacral dislocation requires a computed tomography scan exploration with multiplanar reconstructions. Early reduction is associated with neurologic recovery. However, prognosis is correlated with the initial neurologic status and the severity of other associated injuries.