TRAUMATIC LUMBOSACRAL DISLOCATION IN A 5-YEAR-OLD BOY WITH 8 YEARS FOLLOW-UP

Study Design. The authors present an unusual case of pure traumatic bi lateral lumbosacral dislocation in a 5-year-old boy, the conservative treatment carried out, and the long-term result. Objectives. To descri be a rare traumatic lesion in children and evaluate the result obtaine d with conservative treatment. Summary of Background Data. Watson-Jone s was the first to describe this type of lesion. Since then, only a fe w cases have been added. Most authors suggest that open reduction shou ld be carried out. No cases of this type of injury in children have be en reported. Methods. A 5-year-old was hit in the lumbosacral region w ith a rocking chair. Examination showed neurologic deficit of left L5 and S1 nerve roots. Roentgenographic examination and computed tomograp hy scan confirmed the anterior dislocation of the fifth lumbar Vertebr a on the sacrum without any fracture. He was treated with traction, fo llowed by hyperextension in a Cotrel traction table and further immobi lization with a lumbar plaster jacket. Results. Eight years after the injury, the patient had no neurologic deficit and lumbar radiographs s howed a good alignment of the lumbosacral spine. Conclusion. In childr en with traumatic lumbosacral dislocation, closed reduction should be attempted even if neurologic deficit is present.