Incidental Thoracic Th1 Spina Bifida Occulta Detection Following Sports Injury: A Case Report with Comprehensive Radiological Insights

Introduction: Spina bifida is a neural tube defect and the incidence in the thoracic region is extremely rare. We reported an incidental finding of thoracic spina bifida occulta at the first thoracic vertebra following a sport-related injury. Case Report: A 28-year-old male presented to our emergency department; the patient complained of middle thoracic back pain without any sensory-motor deficits after a fall during a football game. An X-ray and a thoracic computed tomography (CT) scan were performed and highlighted an incomplete fusion of the Th1 spinous process and lamina. A follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed a few months after diagnosis showed no underlying associated complications. Conclusion: This case report highlights a rare instance of thoracic spina bifida occulta at the TH1 vertebra. This case was initially misdiagnosed, and through radiographic, CT, and MRI findings, the report contributes valuable insights for radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, and neurosurgeons about spina bifida occulta. Keywords: Spina bifida, spinous process, TH1, vertebra, magnetic resonance imaging.