Mechanics of anatomic reduction of thoracolumbar burst fractures : comparison of distraction versus distraction plus lordosis, in the anatomic reduction of the thoracolumbar burst fracture

The adequate reduction of vertebral burst fractures is dependent on successful application of distractive forces in combination with the restoration of normal spinal lordosis. However, the optimal sequence of distraction in comparison to distraction plus lordosis in the anatomic restoration of the fractured thoracolumbar spine has not been described. Burst fractures of the L1 vertebra were first created and the reduced in vitro using three differing reduction techniques. In six fresh human cadaver spine specimens, the mean fracture severity based on the degree of canal compromise was 31% (SD±20%) after fracture