DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjmcr.2026.v14i03.005

Pages: 340-343

Anatomical variations, as well as incomplete fusion and ossification of the spine Developing vertebral structures can mimic and simulate acquired lesions. The ossicle Oppenheimer's is a distinct developmental variant, resulting from the non-fusion of a accessory ossification center at the tip of the articular process. Similarly, non-fusion of an accessory spinous process is another possible variant of the posterior arch of the spine. Patients with this condition may be asymptomatic or to present with back pain of varying intensity. We present the case of a 33-year-old man years old suffering from back pain following a minor lumbar injury, and presenting a symptomatic bilateral Oppenheimer's ossicle associated with a spinous process. The accessory bone was not consolidated. The diagnosis of an acute posterior arch fracture was ruled out, as radiological examinations revealed a characteristic cortex with regular contours. In our knowledge, the association between these two entities has never been described in the literature. Our goal is to highlight that this anatomical variation can be the cause of painful syndromes and should not be confused with a fracture or dislocation.