ABSTRACT
Background: The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the functional outcome of conservative treatment with early ambulation of dorso-lumbar spine fractures with no neurological deficit. Aims & Objective: The purpose of this prospective study was to identify the risk factors for dorso-lumbar spine injuries, and to assess the efficacy of non-operative treatment with early ambulation, and functional outcome of the patients. Material and Methods: From October 2008 to June 2010, 48 consecutive patients with single- level thoracolumbar spinal injury, with no neurological deficit were managed non-operatively. A custom-made thoracolumbosacral orthosis was worn by all patients for six months, and early ambulation was recommended. Patients were evaluated as per TLICS score, and if score was <=4 with no neurological deficit then, they were treated with conservative treatment and included in the study. The Denis Pain and Work Scale were used to assess the clinical outcome. The average follow-up period was 6.5 months (range, 4 to 11 months). Statistical analysis done by observational descriptive statistics using SPSS 19.0. Results: Radiological parameters, such as Cobb’s angle, showed loss of fracture reduction, which was not statistically significant. However, the functional outcome was satisfactory in 40 out of 48 patients, with no complications recorded on completion of treatment. Conclusion: Conservative treatment with early mobilization using TLS orthosis had good results in patients with TLICS score <4. We support the concept that TLICS is a reliable and easy-to-use classification for the conservative treatment and prognosis of thoracolumbar spinal fractures.