ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the role of the short-segment transpedicular instrumentation and fusion in the treatment of thoracic and lumbar spine unstable fractures. Methods We reviewed 121 patients of thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures treated by short-segment transpedicular instrumentation (attachment of one level above the fracture to one level below the fracture) by using an AO Universal Spine System (USS), plus posterolateral fusion by using autogenous iliac crest bone graft. Results Out of the 121 cases, 104 had been followed clinically, radiographically, and functionally for 12 to 72 months (mean 31.3 months). Follow-up observations showed that, 101 patients (97.1%) had neurological function improvement more than one Frankel grade (3 no change), the average loss of vertebral body height basically reversed to normal (mean 58.3% preoperatively versus mean 3.2% postoperatively, with mean loss of 2.1% in follow-up), and the kyphotic angles were basically corrected (mean 29?preoperatively versus mean 3.4?postoperatively, with mean loss of 3.4?in follow-up). Conclusions The short-segment transpedicular instrumentation and fusion can provide excellent reduction and fixation, indirect decompression, and stabilization for unstable thoracic and lumbar fractures. The USS may be effectively employed in the short-segment fixation of thoracic and lumbar fractures.[