Broken transverse processes

[Justjeanette]

I was just in an auto accident resulting in broken tranverse processes L1, L2, L3, and L4 on the right side. The resident explained that this was rather serious because it was all 4 and that the treating doctor would explain... But the doctor came to my hospital room while I was sleeping and I never did find out what I need to know. I am in a great deal of pain and was given a corset back brace but told to only use it for a few hours per day and to refrain from excess movement, especially twisting motions, for at least 12 weeks. Please explain this too me... Will it heal? Will the pain go away? I have been getting conflicting information and I am rather confused and scared.

[Justjeanette]

I weigh 300ish pounds... since that may be needed to know.  The main worry I have is that the intern suggested that the fact that all four lumbar transverse processes were broken that the muscles and tendons would not ever be properly reattached to my spine.

Could you explain just what the transverse processes are and what it means that all four (L1, L2, L3, & L4) are now broken on the right side... I don't understand what these bones do.  They told me that if I had broken every other one it would not have been as serious as it is because they were all broken in a row.  Since I don't understand what they do... I don't understand why this makes such a big difference.  Your help is greatly appreciated.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

It would be difficult to comment on the situation without knowing the relevant clinical details. However since there was no surgical intervention suggested and conservative measures were chosen, this is unlikely to be complicated. This is likely to heal itself in a few weeks, provided it is given adequate stability with limited movement of the spine (as provided by the brace). The pain is also likely to get better as the injury heals and the inflammation subsides. Meanwhile you could use the anti-inflammatory/ pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!