Abstract:

BACKGROUND: With the rapid development of biomechanics and fixation materials, pedicle screw fixation has become the main method for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical effect and influencing factors of posterior pedicle screw fixation comlined with transpedicular self-bone grafting in the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures.
METHODS: Forty-seven thoracolumbar burst fracture patients treated by posterior pedicle screw fixation combined with transpedicular self-bone grafting were selected. American Spinal Injury Association and visual analogue score were measured preoperatively and postoperatively. Vertebral wall compressed ratios, Cobb angel and Oswestry disability index were measured preoperatively, postoperatively and 12 months after follow-up.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: All the patients were followed-up. The pain and injured vertebral height were improved obviously. American Spinal Injury Association score of 55% patients was upgraded to 1 or 2 level. Postoperative anterior and posterior vertebral wall compressed ratios and Cobb angel were significantly decreased than preoperative (P < 0.05). After followed-up for 12 months, anterior and posterior vertebral wall compressed ratios and Cobb angel were slightly increased comparing with postoperation, but the difference was not significant (P > 0.05). Posterior fixation and transpedicular self-bone grafting can significantly restore vertebral height and maintain vertebral stability. The main factors affecting the Oswestry disability index score were the anterior vertebral compression rate of preoperatively and 12 months’ follow-up.