ABSTRACT

Clay-shoveler’s fracture represents an avulsion type of fracture of a spinous process in the lower cervical or upper thoracic region. It is an extremely rare injury at the present times but may be one aspect of a serious injury. A 36 year old male was admitted following a fall from a height. He had severe neck and thoracic back pain with radiation to the bilateral shoulder region. Radiological examination revealed spinous process fractures of the C6, C7 and Th1 vertebrae. Treatment was conservative and good clinical outcome was maintained. Clay-shoveler’s fracture is generally considered stable fractures. However, it may be associated with other serious injuries. Thorough diagnostic work-up should be performed in high risk injuries.