Thoracolumbar fractures are the most common spinal injuries, typically occurring at the T10-L2 junction. Master the TLICS classification, AO Spine trauma principlesand posterior ligamentous complex assessment to confidently manage burst fractures and spinal trauma. ⏱ Chapters 0:00 Intro 0:22 Essentials 1:02 Denis 1:29 Plc Mnemonic 1:57 Classification 2:27 Tlics 3:01 Imaging Signs 3:33 Algorithm 4:11 Surgical Technique 4:46 Numbers 5:14 Clinical reasoning — 1 5:49 Clinical reasoning — 2 This comprehensive orthopaedic masterclass covers the anatomy, biomechanicsand classification systems of thoracolumbar fractures. We explore the Denis three-column concept, the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) scoreand the AO Spine classification, providing a structured framework for surgical decision-making, neurological assessmentand determining optimal conservative or operative management. 🦴 IN THIS VIDEO YOU'LL LEARN • The anatomical and biomechanical significance of the thoracolumbar junction (T10-L2) • How to apply the Denis three-column concept to assess spinal stability • The four key structures of the posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) • How to calculate and interpret the TLICS score for treatment decisions • The differences between AO Spine Type A, Band C injuries • How to identify the four cardinal MRI signs of posterior ligamentous complex disruption • Differentiating conus medullaris injuries from cauda equina syndromes • The indications for non-operative bracing versus posterior pedicle screw stabilisation • The principles of urgent spinal decompression for incomplete neurological deficits ⏱️ CHAPTERS 📌 KEY TAKEAWAYS ✔️ The thoracolumbar junction (T12-L1) is highly vulnerable as a transition zone between the rigid thoracic spine and mobile lumbar spine. ✔️ The posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) is the primary determinant of mechanical stability and the posterior tension band resisting flexion. ✔️ A TLICS score of 4 or more indicates surgical management, driven heavily by PLC status and incomplete neurological deficit. ✔️ MRI is essential in borderline cases to check for STIR or T2 hyperintensity and interspinous widening, which confirm PLC disruption. ✔️ Urgent surgical decompression within 24 hours is the standard principle for incomplete cord or cauda equina injuries. 👩⚕️ WHO THIS IS FOR This video is designed for orthopaedic trainees, medical students, junior doctorsand physiotherapists seeking a deep understanding of spinal trauma. Curious patients looking to understand thoracolumbar fracture management and surgical decision-making will also find this masterclass highly informative. 📚 RELATED TOPICS: Cervical Spine Trauma and Clearance · Cauda Equina Syndrome Assessment · Spinal Cord Injury and STASCIS Principles · Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) · Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) · Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures 🔗 More free orthopaedic teaching at Orthovellum.com — subscribe for weekly videos. 🎨 CREDITS • Original Orthovellum production. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: Educational only — not individual medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment. #orthopaedics #spinesurgery #thoracolumbar #spinalfracture #orthopaedictrauma #tlics #spine #neurosurgery #spinaltrauma #medicaleducation #burstfracture #orthovellum