Bilateral locked facets in the thoracic spine

Abstract

Two cases of traumatic bilateral locked facets in the thoracic spine are reported. Both patients had only minor neurological signs. They both made a full neurological recovery after surgical reduction of the locked facets. Bilateral locked facets are very uncommon in the thoracic spine. the diagnosis should be considered in any patient with a fracture-dislocation of the thoracic spine. In these cases additional lateral tomographs are required. Early open reduction of bilateral locked facets and internal fixation are mandatory. © 1984 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.