Posterior pedicle screw fixation followed by anterior decompression and fusion for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of posterior pedicle screw fixation combined with anterior decompression and fusion for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures. Methods The clinical data of 53 patients underwent posterior pedicle screw fixation and anterior decompression and fusion were retrospectively analyzed.The vertebral height, Cobb angle, vertebral tube volume, the Frankel gradient and Fugl-Meyer score were recorded and compared before and after treatment. Results 49 patients were followed up.At the last time of follow-up, the vertebral height, Cobb angle, vertebral tube volume all significantly improved (t=24.047, P<0.001; t=21.815, P<0.001; t=31.699, P<0.001). The Frankel gradient before treatment was: A 6 cases, B 18 cases, C 15 cases, D 10 cases, E 4 cases.After treatment, it came to 3 cases, 8 cases, 11 cases, 17 cases, 10 cases, respectively.There was significant difference before and after treatment (Z=2.997, P=0.003). There was significant difference in Fugl-Meyer score before and after treatment[(74.65±8.42)points, (90.26±9.17)points, respectively, P<0.001]. Conclusion There is excellent effect on posterior pedicle screw fixation followed by anterior decompression and fusion for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures.It is good for the recovery of motion and spinal function. Key words: Spinal fractures; Fracture fixation; Decompression, surgery