Diaphragm sparing mini open thoracotomy with standalone expandable cage: Observational study of a safe novel approach for stabilising thoracolumbar fractures

Abstract

Objective: An ideal surgical procedure to any vertebral fracture with cord compression produces maximum decompression, without producing additional deficits, achieve fixation by fusion of minimum number of motion segments and maintain the corrected kyphosis without any long-term deterioration. Although conventional posterior approach provides three column fixation, it invariably devitalizes the strong paraspinal muscles and posterior ligamentous complex of the involved vertebra and the adjacent segments necessary for maintaining erect posture. The lateral approach too, damages the strongest portion of the vertebra, the pedicle and sometimes the diaphragm has to be cut open and re-sutured. Conventional anterior approaches are mainly used either as a part of combined approach where in, there is extensive destruction of anterior longitudinal ligament and crus of the diaphragm and have the limitation that they cannot address the T11 and T12 fractures without cutting open the diaphragm. The anterior approach is not usually attempted as it is not a familiar approach to the neurosurgeon and literature reports increased morbidity. The main aim of this study is to encourage the reader to employ a new anterior approach toward thoracolumbar fracture management.Materials and Methods: The chief author has devised a novel, safe, mini open, diaphragm sparing approach to address all these issues, exploring a corridor between medial margin of psoas and left crus of the diaphragm which is sufficient enough for good decompression of the cord and that even a standalone broad foot plated expandable cage for stabilization is effective in correction of kyphosis without posterior supplementation or potential respiratory complications.Results: All 37 operated patients recovered well and their kyphotic angles were maintained on follow up. All patients improved neurologically without any respiratory complications potentially associated with thoracotomy.Conclusion: This prospective study proved that kyphotic corrections were better, no subsidence rates observed, and were maintained at 1 year follow-up with this novel approach.