When Is a Clay-Shoveler's Fracture, Not a Clay-Shoveler's Fracture?

• DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.cc.24.00149
• Publication Date: 2024-10-03T18:05:17Z
• Authors: Matthew J. Schultz; Michael R. Wheeler; Loren O. Black; Aidan T. Morrell; Travis C. Philipp
• Keywords: Male; Spinal Fusion; Cervical Vertebrae; Humans; Spinal Fractures; Aged

A 71-year-old man with a history of C5-7 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) sustained C7 spinous process fracture after falling from ladder. He was initially managed nonoperatively but developed anterolisthesis kyphosis at C7-T1 left hand weakness over the course 11 days. Surgical treatment included wiring C5-T3 posterior fusion. At 14-month follow-up, he demonstrated resolution pain returned motor function.