Characteristic analysis of precordial referred pain caused by osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture in the 12th thoracic vertebrae misdiagnosed as coronary heart disease
Guo Yicheng1, Xie Zhipeng2, Liu Wanli3, Zhao Yang1, Che Yansheng1, Zhao Min1
1Department of Traumatology and Neurosurgery, 3Department of Drug and Equipment, 946th Hospital of PLA, Yining 835000, China; 2Hygienic Unit of PLA Unit 69349, Zhaosu 835600, China
Abstract：ObjectiveTo discuss the causes of misdiagnosis and clinical characteristics of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) in the 12th thoracic vertebrae with precordial referred pain. MethodsThe clinical data of 2 cases of OVCF in the 12th thoracic vertebrae misdiagnosed as coronary heart disease admitted to the Department of Orthopedics of the 946th Hospital of PLA on May 25, 2019, and March 8, 2021, were retrospectively analyzed, and the clinical characteristics of referred pain in the precordial area caused by OVCF of the 12th thoracic vertebrae were summarized. ResultsBoth cases were all admitted due to "chest and back pain and discomfort". Coronary heart disease was initially considered and relevant examination and treatment were performed, but the results were not good. Further examination revealed that it was caused by the 12th thoracic vertebral fracture, and percutaneous vertebroplasty was performed. The pain in the precordial area disappeared after the surgery, and the follow-up results were good after discharge. ConclusionsThe 12th thoracic vertebral fracture causes far precordial referred pain, which is rare in clinical practice. We should strengthen the understanding of the referred pain caused by OVCF in the elderly to reduce misdiagnosis and mistreatment.
