Regional variability in use of a novel assessment of thoracolumbar spine fractures: United States versus international surgeons

Table 5 Thoracolumbar injury severity score (TLISS)

Mechanism	Qualifier	Points
Compression	None	1
Compression	Lateral Angulation >15°	1
Compression	Burst	1
Translational/Rotational		3
Distraction		4
Neurological Exam	Qualifier	Points
Intact		0
Nerve Root		2
Cord, conus medullaris	Incomplete	3
Cord, conus medullaris	Complete	2
Cauda Equina		3
Integrity of the Posterior Ligamentous Complex		Points
Intact		0
Injury Suspected/Indeterminate		2
Injured		3

Thoracolumbar injury severity score (TLISS) illustrating three major categories of mechanism of injury, neurological involvement and posterior ligamentous complex with associated grading points. Taken from Harrop J, Vaccaro AR, et al [8].

ISSN: 1749-7922