Traumatic lumbosacral lateral dislocation without fracture.

STUDY

DESIGN

A unique case of lumbosacral lateral dislocation without fracture is reported.

OBJECTIVE

To report on the diagnosis and treatment of a traumatic L5-S1 lateral dislocation in a polytrauma 34-year-old male with L5 nerve root paralysis.

METHOD: Interbody fusion following decompression, posterior reduction and interbody grafting combined with posterior plating was performed.

RESULTS

At an early stage the patient was able to return to work and walk without supports. At the 12-month follow-up evaluation no back pain was referred and fusion was achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

Lateral pure dislocation of the lumbosacral joint is very rare and can be easily misdiagnosed. A careful evaluation of the AP standard X-ray can lead to diagnosis and can be confirmed by CT scan. Prompt reduction and fusion is the treatment of choice to allow a quick functional recovery.