The first case report of multiple thoracic vertebrae fractures caused by a low-voltage electric shock

Eur J Med Res. 2022 Apr 4;27(1):52. doi: 10.1186/s40001-022-00681-4.

Abstract

Background: This paper describes a unique case-the first case of multiple fractures of the thoracic vertebrae caused by a low-voltage electric shock.

Case presentation: A 22-year-old male patient was diagnosed with compression fractures of Th2-Th6 caused by a muscle spasm resulting from an electric shock. The patient was treated conservatively using a cervico-thoracic support corset. After rehabilitation, the patient has regained his physiological movement of the spine without any back pain.

Conclusions: Albeit vertebral fractures caused by electric shock injury are extremely rare, clinicians should always keep in mind this diagnosis, especially when clinical symptoms such as pain and limitation of movement are present.

Keywords: Electric injury; Electric shock; Multiple vertebrae fractures; Support corset; Trauma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Fractures, Compression* / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Compression* / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Orthotic Devices / adverse effects
  • Spinal Fractures* / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Fractures* / etiology
  • Thoracic Vertebrae
  • Young Adult