TENOR fixation system for treatment of thoracolumbar unstable fracture

Abstract

Objective To introduce Tenor fixation system for the treatment o f thoracolumbar unstable fractures and to evaluate its clinical effect. Methods 26 patients with thoracolumbar unstable fractures were treated with Tenor fixation system and received posterolateral fusion. The vertebral body restoration was c ontrolled to preserve about 90%of the normal height. Results The average follow -up time was 12.5 months. Firm fixation was found in all the 26 cases, and no b roken nail or rod or loosening screw was found. Spinal fusion was obtained in al l the patients. 22 cases had normal vertebral body restoration, but 4 cases stil l had compression of 20 to 30%of the vertebral body. According to ASIA motor sc oring system, 3 patients of grade A did not resume their normal neural function. The rest gained neural functional recovery of at least one grade. Conclusions T he easy Tenor fixation system allows three dimensional rectifying fixation and q uantitative adjustment reduction, and provides firm fixation. Since vertebral re duction can be controlled to 90%of the normal height to diminish the interspace between injured vertebral bodies, it facilitates fracture healing, and enhances stability of anterior and middle columns.