Percutaneous rotation-self oriented distraction trauma fixation system for treatment of thoracolumbar fractures

Abstract

Objective To clarify the curative effect of percutaneous rotation-self oriented distraction trauma fixation system (RTS) in treatment of thoracolumbar fracture. Methods A prospective analysis was made on 52 patients with single segmental thoracolumbar fracture in the absence of neurological deficit treated from October 2011 to June 2013. Twenty-five patients were treated with Sextant percutaneous transpedicular screw fixation system manufactured by Sofamor Company (Sextant group), and the other 27 patients were treated using RTS made by Luoyang Orthopedic Hospital and Shanghai Ruizhi Company (RTS group). Two out of the patients in RTS group were lost to follow-up. Perioperative parameters of operation time and bleeding were compared between the two groups. Anterior and posterior height of fractured vertebrae and Cobb's angle were measured to estimate the correction of kyphotic deformity. Visual analogue score (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were measured to evaluate the pain relief and function recovery. Results Duration of follow-up was 8-18 months (mean 13 months). Cobb's angle and anterior and posterior vertebral height between the two groups were similar before operation (P>0.05), but both groups obtained significant improvements after operation (P 0.05]. Anterior and posterior vertebral height showed (32.3±9.5)% and (5.7±1.6)% correction respectively in RTS group, but (19.6±10.7)% and (3.7±0.9)% in Sextant group (P 0.05). There were significant differences in VAS and ODI between the two group at postoperative 3 and 6 months and at final follow-up (P<0.01). Conclusion The two transpedicular screw fixation techniques are effective in treatment of thoracolumbar fracture, but RTS has better ability in vertebral restoration. Key words: Spinal fractures; Thoracic vertebrae; Lumbar vertebrae; Operation, minimally invasive