Abstract:

BACKGROUND: With the development of pedicle screw technology, it is not enough only to pedicle screw implantation. It should choose the best channel for pedicle screw implantation based on fracture reduction and fixation.
OBJECTIVE: To improve the treatment safety and effectiveness of individual pedicle screw fixation for thoracolumbar fractures.
METHODS: Preoperative X-ray and CT were performed in 50 cases of thoracolumbar fractures to measure the pedicle width, the screw path length, the distances between pedicles, the transverse and sagittal screw angle, the compress of the vertebrace, the spinal Cobb’s angle. The individual optimized range to safely implant pedicle screws was selected. Combined with anatomical localization, C-arm X-ray was used to guide operation orientation and inspect outcome.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The position of the screw was good, the angle was correct, and the length was suitable. The compress of the vertebrace and the spinal Cobb’s angle were improved significantly after operation (P < 0.01). Fifty cases were followed up for 2 to 26 months, with an average of 12 months, and the fractures healed. Individual radiology measurement combined with anatomical localization is a reasonable and effective method, which is helpful to evaluate the security and the efficiency of transpedicle internal fixation.