Clinical application of a self-designed minimally invasive device for posterior pedicle screw fixation of thoracolumbar fractures

Abstract

Objective To evaluate a self-designed minimally invasive device which can facilitate the posterior percutaneous pedicle screw fixation of the thoraeolumbar fractures. Methods From December 2004 to November 2006.17 patients with thoracolumbar fractures were treated by posterior pereutaneous pedicle screw fixation.using a self-designed minimally invasive device to facilitate the operation.We recorded and analyzed the operation time,bleeding volume,anterior border height of the injured vertebra,Cobb angle of kyphosis,late loss of correction,and complications. Results All the patients were followed up for a mean of 19 months(14 to 22 months).The mean anterior border height of the injured vertebra increased from 52.1%±2.9%preoperatively to 95.2%±0.4% postoperatively,with a significant difference(P<0.05).The mean Cobb angle was corrected from 15.9°±1.6°preoperatively to 5.9°±0.9°postoperatively,with a significant difference(P<0.05).,The mean late losss of correction was 12.1%±0.2%,the mean operation time was(110±18)min and the mean bleeding volume was(120±68)mL. Conclusion Since the self-designed minimally invasive device can greatly facilitate the posterior percutaneous pedicle screw fixation of the thoracolumbar fractures.it should be recommended for a wider clinical use. Key words: Spinal fractures; Thoracic vertebrae; Lumbar vertebrae; Fracture fixation,internal