Posterior short-segment fixation in thoracolumbar unstable burst fractures – transpedicular grafting or six-screw construct?

Burst fracture approximately accounts for 20% of thoracolumbar fractures and occurs due to an axial loading force that results in failure to support the anterior and middle column [1,2]. Proper management of thoracolumbar burst fractures remains controversial and includes nonsurgical and surgical treatment. For those neurologically intact patients with minor deformity, nonoperative treatment of short-term bed rest followed by a molded thoracolumbar orthosis can achieve excellent results [3,4]. Surgery is usually indicated for a patient suffering from severe deformity, for severe pain limiting the patient's activity level, and/or neurologic deficit.The type of surgery includes anterior surgery, posterior surgery, a combination of anterior and posterior surgery, and minimally invasive surgery [5,6].
Source: Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery - Category: Neurosurgery Authors: Source Type: research