Treatment of multiple fractures uf the thoracolumbar spine through posterior approach and pedicle screw fixation

Objective To investigate the operative indications and the therapeutic effect of the pedide screw fixation used for treating multiple fractures of the thoracolumbar spine. Methods 16 cases of multiple fractures of the thoracolumbar spine were chosen to be treated by open reduction through posterior approach and pedicle screw fixation. 10 cases were the fractures involved adjacent segments,4 cases were the fractures with one intact vertebral segment between them,2 cases were the fractures with two intact vertebral segments between them. Results The patients were followed up for 12～36 months,with an average of 21.5 months. After the operations,function of moat of the injured nerves had beeu improved or restored. The vertebral height of the fractured segment showed no signifi-cant loss. The materials of internal fixation found no loosening or fracturing at the end of follow-up. Conclusion Fractures of multi-segment of thoraeolumhar vertebrae can cause serious instability and are required for timely treat- ment. The method of the internal fixation with pedicle screw-rod fixation system through posterior approach, fol- lowed by limited decompression, can reconstruct the stability of the vertebrae and promote the recovery of the im- paired neurological functions. Key words: Spinal fractures;  Fracture fixation;  Bone nails