ABSTRACT
Objective To observe the morphology of thoracolumbar spinal nerve roots and their surrounding structures, in order to find out their anatomical relationship and to improve surgical procedures as well as to reduce the operative injury and complications. Methods 16 adult cadavers were studied anatomically. The diameters of spinal nerve roots from T10 to L3 at the outlet of intervertebral foramen, the percentages of the distance from spinal nerve roots to the upper border of corresponding vertebral bodies in vertebral height, the angles between spinal nerve roots with lateral border of vertebrae were measured and analyzed. The surgical incision and procedure for the treatment of thoracolumbar fracture were designed and applied in 58 patients of thoracolumbar injury. Results The diameters of spinal nerve roots increased gradually from T10 to L3 in the intervertebral foramen. The percentages of the distance from spinal nerve roots to the upper border of vertebrae in vertebral height gradually became larger too. The angles between spinal nerve roots with vertebral bodies diminished gradually. Around intervertebral foramen, the pattern of spinal nerves and blood vessels was arranged in order as vein, nerve and artery from above down below. The nerves and vessels extended out of the intervertebral foramen together. In clinical practice, 58 cases of thoracolumbar injury were surgically treated with traditional anterior approach and "renal" incision in 35 cases, and with modified anterior approach in "┑" shape in 23 cases. Prior to the modification of surgical techniques, the mean amount of blood loss was 670 ml, the mean operation time was 199 min; however, by the modification of surgical procedures, the mean amount of blood loss decreased to 435 ml, and the mean operation time reduced to 137 min. In an average follow-up of 9 months, the spine recovered to normal curvature and alignment in all cases; the fusion rate was 100%; no failure of implant occurred; neurological function was improved at least one grade in 94.5%. Conclusion Modified anterior approach is helpful to reduce operative injuries and complications. It makes surgical manipulation feasible comparing to the traditional approach.