PURPOSE: To evaluate the configuration of vertebral body fractures in flexion-distraction injuries of thoracolumbar spine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We investigated the location of fractures, anterior or posterior vertebral body height, kyphotic angle of injured segments, canal encroachment and severity of comminution on radiologic examinations of 21 cases. RESULTS: There were 11 compression fractures and 9 burst fractures. 85% of fractures were located in the inferior vertebrae of injured segments. Anterior vertebral height decreased by 27% on average with decrease of 18% in compression fractures and 40% in burst fractures. Posterior height decreased by 1% on average with increase of 1% in compression fractures and decrease of 4% in burst fractures. The average kyphotic angle of injured segments was 19.5 degrees with 15.4degrees in compression fractures and 26.8 degrees in burst fractures. The canal encroachment in 9 burst fractures was 27% on average, and the comminution of vertebral body was mild in 74%. CONCLUSION: The fracture of vertebral body in flexion-distraction injuries of thoracolumbar spine was very common, and located on the inferior vertebrae of injured segment. The decrease of vertebral height, canal encroachment and severity of comminution was relatively less than the estimated from mechanism of injury, with offset effect of distraction force.