Thoracolumbar Chance fracture during a professional female soccer game: case report

This case report describes a rare instance of a specific type of spinal fracture, called a Chance fracture, occurring in a female soccer player during a game. The injury involved not only a fracture but also damage to the ligaments in the spine, making it unstable. Despite the severity, the player received appropriate initial care, preventing further complications. After undergoing surgery to stabilize the spine, the athlete was able to return to professional soccer within six months and maintained her athletic routine without issues for four years following the procedure.

• 1
  The patient presented with a painful midline gap, suggesting ligament injury, which wasn't immediately recognized, highlighting the potential for delayed diagnosis in such injuries.
• 2
  Proper immobilization and referral to the hospital were crucial in preventing further spinal cord damage, emphasizing the importance of adequate initial care at the game field.
• 3
  Monosegmental posterior instrumentation spine fusion allowed the patient to return to professional soccer activities within 6 months, demonstrating a successful treatment outcome.