Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research ›› 2011, Vol. 15 ›› Issue (39): 7284-7287.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.39.016

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Biomechanics of vertebroplasty-augmented short-segment pedicle screw fixation of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures

Li Jia-mou1, Zhang Kun-ya2, Han Wei-feng1, Lin Xin1, Liu Zhi-cheng2   

  1. 1Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing  100050, China
    2Biomechanics Laboratory, College of Bioengineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing  100069, China
  • Received:2011-05-28 Revised:2011-08-08 Online:2011-09-24 Published:2011-09-24
  • About author:Li Jia-mou☆, Doctor, Attending physician, Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China lis@bjmu.edu.cn

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Vertebroplasty-augmented short-segment pedicle screw fixation is developed to avoid implant loosing, rupture, bone nonunion, and loss of kyphosis due to single pedicle screw fixation for treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. This treatment has been applied in clinic, but the relevant biomechanical studies are rare.
OBJECTIVE: To observe the biomechanical changes in the treatment of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures with short-segment pedicle screw fixation with vertebroplasty.
METHODS: Twelve fresh frozen thoracolumbar spines (T12-L2) were used. Models of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures were prepared and divided into three groups: Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) group, pedicle screw fixation group, and PVP-augmented short-segment pedicle screw fixation group.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In the three groups, the cement distribution area was all beyond 50% vertebral body. The failure load and stiffness in the PVP-augmented short-segment pedicle screw fixation group were higher than those in the other two groups (P < 0.05). Screw bending formed due to a lower intensity in the pedicle screw fixation group than that in the PVP-augmented short-segment pedicle screw fixation group. Vertebroplasty supplementation may improve the axial pullout strength, failure load and stiffness of the short-segment pedicle screw. It is important for decreasing the incidence of pedicle screw failure and progressive spinal deformity.

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