Published online Jun 30, 2005.
https://doi.org/10.4184/jkss.2005.12.2.132
Results of Non-fusion Method in Thoracolumbar and Lumbar Spinal Fractures
Abstract
Study Design
A retrospective study of surgically managed patients.
Objectives
To evaluate the results of posterior stabilization of a thoracolumbar fracture, without fusion, followed by the removal of metal implants within an appropriate period. Changes in the sagittal alignment and the restoration of segmental motion were also investigated.
Summary of Literature Review
In managing unstable thoracolumbar and lumbar fractures, posterior fusion, using a transpedicular screw system, has been the treatment of choice, but results in the permanent loss of segmental motion.
Materials and Methods
Twelve patients with thoracolumbar and lumbar spine fractures, under 40 years of age (mean 28.4 years), were managed using this non-fusion method. Implants were removed at mean 9.2 months after the initial fixation of the fracture. For metal-fixed segments, the sagittal alignment, such as the angle of kyphosis, height of body, recovered motion range in flexion-extension and right-left bending view, were measured radiologically and compared with a control group. Clinical aspects, such as gross deformity and functional ability, were also investigated.
Results
The average sagittal angle at the time of injury was average 17.2°, but became 1.7° post-fixation, which increased after removal of the implants, reaching 9.8° at the final follow up. The height of the fractured body was maintained until the final follow-up. The mean segmental motion measured in the sagittal and coronal planes were 11.7 and 9.5°, respectively. Most patients were satisfied with the final gross appearance and functional outcomes. Only one patient showed considerable development of kyphotic angulation, but the functional outcome was good.
Conclusion
The author's non-fusion method seems to be effective in achieving stability and sagittal alignment, as well as in regaining segmental motion of the fixed segments. The non-fusion method seems to be an effective method for managing thoracolumbar fractures, especially for young active persons.
Fig. 1
(A) 32 year old male was injured at L1 by fall from height. Anteroposterior and lateral view at injury shows decrease of L1 body height and widening of interspinous space. (B) Kyphotic angle at injury(17°) between T12 and L2 was improved to 2° after post fixation.
Fig. 2
(A) Flexion view. (B) Extension view at last follow up shows 9° of motion angle in the segments fixed previously.
Fig. 3
(A) Right bending view. (B) Left bending view at last follow up shows 7° of motion.
Table 1
Mean motion angle of the patient group according to fixed segments.
Table 2
Percentage of recovered motion compared to normal control group.
References
-
Koh YD, Kim JO. Risk factors in progression of deformity in compression fracture of thoracolumbar junction. J Korean Soc Fract 1999;12:372–378.
-
-
You JW, Lee SH, Park JK. Operative treatment of burst fracture on the thoracolumbar junction. J Korean Orthop Assoc 1995;30:364–374.
-
-
Aebi M, Etter C, Kehl T, Thalgott J. Stabilization of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine with the internal spinal skeletal fixation system: indication, techniques and first results of treatment. Spine 1987;12:5454–5551.
-
-
Ahn JS, Lee JK, Hwang DS, Kim YM, Kim WJ, Byun KH. The change of kyphotic angle and anterior vertebral height after posterior or posterolateral fusion with transpedicular screw for thoracolumbar bursting fracture. J Korean Soc Fract 2003;12:379–387.
-
-
Shin BJ, Kim DS, Choi CU. Analysis of loss of correction in spinal fractures treated by pedicle screw system. J Korean Soc Spine Surg 1994;1:223–232.
-
-
Oner FC, Van der Rijt RR, Ramos LM, Dhert WJ, Verbout AJ. Changes in the disc space after fractures of the thoracolumbar spine. J Bone Joint Surg 1998;80-B:833–839.
-
-
Lindsey RW, Dick W, Nunchuck S, Zach Z. Residual intersegmental spinal mobility following limited pedicle fixation of thoracolumbar spine fractures with the fixateur interne. Spine 1993;15:474–478.
-