Traumatic pneumorrhachis

J Trauma. 2005 Apr;58(4):875-9. doi: 10.1097/01.ta.0000158249.77176.9a.

Abstract

Traumatic pneumorrhachis is extremely rare, and a review of the English literature has revealed only 31 reported cases. We review the cause and pathophysiology of this unique entity in trauma patients. We also discuss the significance of this entity to the trauma specialist, paying special attention to the differences between air in the subarachnoid space versus air in the epidural space.

MeSH terms

  • Emphysema / etiology*
  • Emphysema / physiopathology
  • Epidural Space
  • Humans
  • Mediastinal Emphysema / complications
  • Pneumocephalus / complications
  • Pneumothorax / complications
  • Spinal Canal*
  • Subarachnoid Space