U-type bilateral sacral fracture with spino-pelvic dissociation caused by epileptic seizure

Abstract

Sacral fracture with spino-pelvic dissociation is a rare and unstable injury caused by high-energy trauma, often with serious haemodynamic and neurological implications. Diagnosis is easily delayed or missed as it is often masked by severe associated injuries. Here, we present an unusual case of spino-pelvic dissociation sustained during a seizure episode in a young epileptic patient on long-term anticonvulsant therapy with previous thoracolumbar spinal arthrodesis. This unique case brings to light the need for clinicians to consider sacral fractures in patients presenting with low back pain with no preceding trauma who otherwise may have risk factors for pathological fractures.