Mechanical Instability After Civilian Thoracolumbar Gunshot Injuries: A Systematic Review to Support Classification Development.

ABSTRACT: Study DesignSystematic Review.ObjectivesIdentify risk factors for mechanical instability in thoracolumbar gunshot wounds to develop a new classification system.MethodsA systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines was conducted across multiple databases from January 1, 1990, to September 12, 2024 (PROSPERO: CRD42023458804).ResultsOf 2400 records, 33 studies (3195 patients) met inclusion criteria, mostly retrospective and single-center, with varying definitions of instability. Direct comparison was limited due to clinical heterogeneity. Only 12 studies defined mechanical instability, mainly using the Denis three-column theory. Instability was reported in less than 10% of cases, except for one higher-rate outlier. The main markers included vertebral body comminution and potential ligam

SUBMITTER: Ricciardi GA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12425954 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature