THE ROENTGENOGRAPHIC APPEARANCE OF TRANSVERSE OR CHANCE FRACTURES OF THE SPINE: THE SEAT BELT FRACTURE

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Abstract
Chance first described the transverse fracture of the spine in 1948. They were rarely encountered before the general use of the lap-type seat belt. The fracture is created by an acute flexion of the body over or against some object which serves as a fulcrum. This mechanism creates ruptures of the posterior ligaments, fractures of the posterior bony elements or some combination of both. The roentgenographic features of various combinations of injuries are presented. The importance of their recognition and the appearance of these injuries on the anteroposterior roentgenogram are stressed. The author’s experience with 6 fractures in 5 patients is reviewed. The "Seat Belt Syndrome" is discussed.

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