C-arm free reduction for thoracolumbar fracture: A technical note

Abstract Background Percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) fixation as a minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is becoming the standard method for stabilizing thoracolumbar burst fractures. However, with the conventional PPS percutaneous reduction is difficult, and a great amount of usage of fluoroscopy is necessary. We describe a novel technique of C-arm free PPS with new reduction device for thoracolumbar fractures. Methods A 22-year-old man presented to our hospital with severe low back pain and impending paraplegia secondary to T12 burst fracture. We performed short-segment fixation and reduction for this patent. The special PPS which have reduction mechanism were inserted under O-arm navigation guidance. The trauma reduction system was applied and the fracture was reduced without fluoroscopy. Results Postoperative computed tomography (CT) showed the adequate screws position and complete reduction of the vertebral body. On one-year follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic, with the fracture healed and no implant loosening. Conclusions C-arm free PPS and reduction is a useful MIS technique for thoracolumbar burst fractures.