Isolated Thoracic and Lumbar Transverse Process Fractures: Do They Need Spine Surgeon Evaluation? A High Volume Level I Trauma Center Experience with Cost Analysis

BackgroundTransverse process fractures (TPF) of the thoracic and lumbar spine have become increasingly identified due to CT imaging. Spine service consultation is common for further evaluation management. There are several studies that demonstrate no difference in clinical outcome with or without intervention. However, study our knowledge provides an additional cost analysis. We hypothesize isolated thoracolumbar TPF stable injuries. Furthermore, results increased healthcare costs.MethodsPatients were using trauma registry data at Saint Louis University (SLU) from January 2012 August 2018. Chart imaging review was performed determine if by team which not included initial radiology report. associated other spinal injuries defined as one more and/or addition any acute fracture dislocation cervical, thoracic, spine. A separate analysis institution-specific charges also performed.ResultsSix hundred eighty two patients 2018 identified. Two twenty eight met criteria be this study. Additional pathology report 5 (2.19%) patients, none required surgical Cost demonstrated costs intervention totaled $1,725,360.28. Average per patient cohort summed $2,529.85ConclusionThese support likely do require fact may represent unnecessary financial burden. Foregoing can alleviate time constraints within practices reduce health care eliminating costly extraneous interventions patient's care.