Effect of different pressure balloon dilation combined with prying reduction and bone graft fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures and the risk factors of postoperative re-fracture / 中国综合临床

Objective:To investigate the effect of different pressure balloon dilation combined with prying reduction and bone graft fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures and the risk factors of postoperative re-fracture.Methods:One hundred cases of thoracolumbar fracture patients admitted to Cangzhou Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital in Hebei Province from March 2019 to June 2021 were selected. Prospective randomized controlled study method was used and random number table method was used to divide them into three groups: incomplete expansion group (33 cases), moderate expansion group (33 cases) and complete expansion group (34 cases). All the 3 groups were treated with balloon dilation combined with prying reduction and bone graft fixation. The pressure of balloon dilation in incomplete dilation group, moderate dilation group and complete dilation group was 100 psi, 150 psi and no more than 200 psi respectively, and the volume of balloon dilation was 0.5∶1, 1∶1 and 1.5∶1 respectively. The operation time, intraoperative bleeding volume, postoperative drainage volume, vertebral anterior margin recovery rate and hospital stay, as well as local Cobb angle, visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores before and after operation were compared among the three groups. According to the follow-up of whether there is re-fracture after surgery, the clinical data of the re-fracture group and the non re-fracture group were compared, and the risk factors of the re-fracture after surgery were analyzed. The measurement data with normal distribution was expressed as: independent sample t-test was used for comparison between two groups, one-way ANOVA or repeated measurement ANOVA was used for comparison between three groups, and SNK-q test was used for comparison between two groups. Counting data were expressed in cases or cases (%), and compared between groups by χ 2 Inspection. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors of refracture after thoracolumbar fracture. Results:There was no significant difference in operation time, intraoperative blood loss and postoperative drainage volume among the three groups ( P=0.096, 0.328 and 0.344, respectively). The recovery rate of vertebral anterior edge height in moderate expansion group was higher than that in incomplete expansion group and complete expansion group ((84.15±4.21)% vs (70.18±7.44)%, (75.94±6.56)%), and the hospitalization time was shorter than that in incomplete expansion group and complete expansion group ((10.38±2.35) d vs (15.18±3.44), (14.59±2.48) d) (all P<0.001). Before treatment, there was no significant difference in Cobb angle, VAS and ODI scores among the three groups (all P>0.05). After treatment, the Cobb angle, VAS and ODI scores of patients in the three groups were lower than those before treatment, and the moderate expansion group were lower than those in the incomplete expansion group and the complete expansion group ((14.08±2.15) ° vs (16.48±4.85) °, (15.06±3.45) °, (1.81±0.53)% vs (2.25±0.41), (2.31±0.42), (18.16±2.18)% vs (20.48±4.85), (20.01±4.45) points) (all P<0.001). 100 patients were followed up until the fracture was healed. They were divided into re-fracture group (15 cases) and non re-fracture group (85 cases) according to whether there was re-fracture after operation. The results of multifactor logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index and bone mineral density were protective factors for patients with thoracolumbar fracture after operation (odds ratio was 0.66 and 0.15 respectively, 95% confidence interval: 0.51~0.86, 0.05~0.42, P values were 0.006 and <0.001 respectively), The old wedge-shaped change of the vertebral body and the abnormal structure of the lumbar spine are the risk factors for postoperative re-fracture (odds ratio 4.22 and 6.36, 95% confidence interval 1.14-15.56 and 1.43-28.21, respectively, P values were 0.027 and 0.015). Conclusions:In the treatment of thoracolumbar fracture with prying reduction and bone grafting fixation, the effect of balloon expansion pressure of 150 psi is better. Body mass index (BMI) and bone mineral density (BMD) were protective factors for postoperative re-fracture of patients with thoracolumbar fracture. Old wedge-shaped change of vertebral body and abnormal lumbar structure are risk factors for postoperative re-fracture.

Back-forward bending CT in simulated surgical position to evaluate the remaining real angle and flexibility of thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To introduce a scout view scanning technique of back-forward bending CT (BFB-CT) in simulated surgical position for evaluating the remaining real angle and flexibility of thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture.@*METHODS@#A total of 28 patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture who met the selection criteria between June 2018 and December 2021 were included in the study. There were 6 males and 22 females with an average age of 69.5 years (range, 56-92 years). The injured vertebra were located at T 10-L 2, including 11 cases of single thoracic fracture, 11 cases of single lumbar fracture, and 6 cases of multiple thoracolumbar fractures. The disease duration ranged from 3 weeks to 36 months, with a median of 5 months. All patients received examinations of BFB-CT and standing lateral full-spine X-ray (SLFSX). The thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), local kyphosis of injured vertebra (LKIV), lumbar lordosis (LL), and the sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were measured. Referring to the calculation method of scoliosis flexibility, the kyphosis flexibility of thoracic, thoracolumbar, and injured vertebra were calculated respectively. The sagittal parameters measured by the two methods were compared, and the correlation of the parameters measured by the two methods was analyzed by Pearson correlation.@*RESULTS@#Except LL ( P>0.05), TK, TLK, LKIV, and SVA measured by BFB-CT were significantly lower than those measured by SLFSX ( P<0.05). The flexibilities of thoracic, thoracolumbar, and injured vertebra were 34.1%±18.8%, 36.2%±13.8%, and 39.3%±18.6%, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that the sagittal parameters measured by the two methods were positively correlated ( P<0.001), and the correlation coefficients of TK, TLK, LKIV, and SVA were 0.900, 0.730, 0.700, and 0.680, respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#Thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to old osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture shows an excellent flexibility and BFB-CT in simulated surgical position can obtain the remaining real angle which need to be corrected surgically.

Suspension exercise training can improve walking and balance after thoracolumbar fracture and spinal cord injury / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore the effect of suspension exercise training (SET) on the lumbar function and balance ability of patients with thoracolumbar fracture and spinal cord injury.Methods:Totally 64 patients with thoracolumbar fracture and spinalcord injury were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, each of 32. Both groups received pedicle screw reduction with internal fixation and spinal dome decompression, followed by routine post-operative rehabilitation. In addition, the observation group performed double bridge and single leg suspension training and pelvic lift training. Everyone′s walking ability, spinal nerve functionality and balance were evaluated 3 days after the operation and 2 months after the training. Stride frequency, stride length and walking speed were observed. American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) nerve function classifications were assigned. The trajectory length, trajectory included area and movement deviation of each subject′s center of gravity (CG) was recorded.Results:The average stride frequency, step length and walking speed of the observation group had all improved significantly after the intervention, and were significantly better than the control group′s averages at that point. This was also true of the proportion in ASIA neurological function grade D (65.63%), CG trajectory length and area, and the Romberg rate of deviation along the X-axis and Y-axis of the CG.Conclusion:SET training after pedicle screw reduction and internal fixation and spinal dome decompression can significantly improve the spinal nerve functioning of persons after a thoracolumbar fracture with incomplete spinal cord injury. It enhances their balance and walking ability. Such therapy is worthy of clinical promotion and application.

Effects of Alendronate Sodium on the Postoperative Indexes in the Osteoporosis Patients with Thoracolumbar Fracture / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE：To investigate the effects of alendronate sodium on postoperative indexes in the osteoporosis patients with thoracolumbar fracture. METHODS ：Totally 170 patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture admitted in 416 Hospital of Nuclear Industry during Jan.-Dec. 2018 were divided into control group （85 cases）and observation group （85 cases）according to random number table . All patients underwent percutaneous vertebroplasty or percutaneous kyphoplasty. After operation ，control group received symptomatic and supportive treatment. Observation group was additionally given Alendronate sodium tablets 70 mg orally，once a week ，on the basis of control group. Treatment course of 2 groups lasted for one year. VAS score ，bone metabolism indexes [serum phosphorus （P）， calcium （Ca）， osteocalcin （OST）， bone alkaline phosphatase （BAP）]， contents of osteoprotegerin（OPG）and nuclear factor-κB receptor activator ligand（RANKL），cytokines（TNF-α，IFN-γ，IL-10）levels were observed in 2 groups before and after 1，3，6，12 months of treatment，and ADR were recorded . RESULTS ：Before treatment ， there was no significant difference in VAS score ，bone metabolism indexes ，contents of OPG and RANKL and cytokines levels between 2 groups （P＞0.05）. After treatment ，VAS scores of 2 groups were significantly lower than before treatment ，the observation group was significantly lower than the control group after 1，3，6 months of treatment （P＜0.05）. OST and BAP contents of observation group after 3，6，12 months treatment as well as OPG and RANKL contents ，TNF-α and IFN-γ levels after 1，3，6，12 months of treatment were significantly lower than before treatment and control group at the same period ；IL-10 level was significantly was higher than before treatment and control group at the same period （P＜0.05）. There was no statistical significance in P or Ca of 2 groups before and after treatment ，OST，BAP，OPG，RANKL contents and cytokines levels of control group before and after treatment （P＞0.05）. There was no statistical significance in total incidence of ADR between 2 group（P＞ 0.05）. CONCLUSIONS ：Alendronate sodium can significantly relieve the pain and improve cytokines ，bone metabolism indexes ， and inhibit expression of releated pathways in osteoporosis patients with thoracolumbar fracture ，with good safety.

Short-term effectiveness comparison between robotic-guided percutaneous minimally invasive pedicle screw internal fixation and traditional open internal fixation in treatment of thoracolumbar fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To compare short-term effectiveness between robot-guided percutaneous minimally invasive pedicle screw internal fixation and traditional open internal fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. Methods: The clinical data of 52 cases of thoracolumbar fracture without neurological injury symptoms admitted between January 2018 and May 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the different surgical methods, they were divided into minimally invasive group (24 cases, treated with robot-assisted percutaneous minimally invasive pedicle screw internal fixation) and open group (28 cases, treated with traditional open internal fixation). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the general data such as gender, age, cause of injury, fracture segment, thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score (TLICS), preoperative back pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, fixed segment height, and fixed segment kyphosis Cobb angle ( P>0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospitalization time of the two groups were recorded and compared; as well as the VAS score, ODI score, fixed segment height, and fixed segment kyphosis Cobb angle of the two groups before operation and at 3 days, 1 month, 6 months, and 10 months after operation. CT scan was reexamined at 1-3 days after operation, and the pedicle screw insertion accuracy rate was determined and calculated according to Gertzbein-Robbins classification standard. Results: The operation time of the minimally invasive group was significantly longer than that of the open group, but the intraoperative blood loss and hospitalization time were significantly shorter than those of the open group ( P0.05). Conclusion: Robot-assisted percutaneous minimally invasive pedicle screw internal fixation for thoracolumbar fractures has significant advantages in intraoperative blood loss, hospitalization time, and early postoperative effectiveness and other aspects, and the effect of fracture reduction is good.

Clinical research of percutaneous monoplanar screw internal fixation via injured vertebrae for thoracolumbar fracture / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous monoplanar screw internal fixation via injured vertebrae for treatment of thoracolumbar fracture. Methods: Between May 2015 and August 2017, 38 cases of thoracolumbar fractures without neurological symptom were treated with percutaneous monoplanar screw internal fixation via injured vertebrae. There were 22 males and 16 females, aged 25-52 years (mean, 32.5 years). There were 23 cases of AO type A3 and 15 cases of AO type A4. The injured vertebrae located at T 11 in 4 cases, T 12 in 9 cases, L 1 in 11 cases, L 2 in 10 cases, L 3 in 3 cases, and L 4 in 1 case. The mean interval between injury and operation was 4.5 days (range, 3-7 days). The pre- and post-operative degrees of lumbodorsal pain were estimated by the visual analogue scale (VAS) score. The X-ray film, CT three-dimensional reconstruction, and MRI were performed, and the ratio of anterior vertebral body height and sagittal Cobb angle were measured to assess the kyphosis of the fractured area. Results: All operations in 38 patients successfully completed without complications such as dural sac, nerve root, or vascular injury. The operation time was (56.2±3.7) minutes and the intraoperative blood loss was (42.3±3.5) mL. All incisions healed by first intention without redness, swelling, or exudation. All patients were followed up 17-33 months, with an average of 21.5 months. The VAS score at each time point after operation significantly improved when compared with that before operation ( P0.05). There was no internal fixator loosening, breakage, or delayed kyphosis in all patients. The ratio of anterior vertebral body height and sagittal Cobb angle significantly improved postoperatively ( P0.05). Conclusion: Percutaneous monoplanar screw internal fixation via injured vertebrae is an easy approach to treat thoracolumbar fracture without neurological symptom, which can effectively restore vertebral body height and correct kyphosis, and avoid long-term segmental kyphosis.

Comparison of the short-segment and long-segment cement-augmented pedicle screw fixation for osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture: A finite element study / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: Pedicle screw fixation combined with cement-augmented is an effective method for the treatment of severe osteoporotic vertebral fractures, but there is no uniform standard. The range of fixed segments is one of the focus of clinical controversy. OBJECTIVE: To establish a three-dimensional finite element model of the short-segment and long-segment cement-augmented pedicle screw fixation for osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture, and to analyze the biomechanical characteristics of adjacent segment structures, fractured vertebral bodies and internal fixation devices. METHODS: The T 9 -L 5 segment of a volunteer without obvious degenerative disease was selected for CT scan. The CT images of Dicom format were obtained, and the engineering software was imported to establish a finite element geometric model to simulate the thoracolumbar fracture and the short-segment and long-segment cement-augmented pedicle screw fixation models. The relevant material parameters were set and the biomechanical characteristics of the two groups were compared and analyzed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The stress on the vertebrae was mainly concentrated on the periphery of the vertebral body and the small facet of the attachment. In the four directions flexion, extension, left-sided and right-sided curvature, the maximum stress of the proximal and distal adjacent vertebrae in the long-segment group was greater than that in the short-segment group. The stress of the intervertebral disc was mainly concentrated in the peripheral annulus. The maximum stress of the proximal and distal adjacent intervertebral discs was greater in the short -segment than in the long-segment, but the high stress area of the long-segment was larger than that of the short-segment. Therefore, long-segment fixation might accelerate the degeneration of adjacent segments.(2) The vertebral bodies of the long-segment group and the short-segment group were displaced to different extents, and the displacements in the left and right directions were the most obvious. In the six movement directions, the displacement and maximum stress of the injured segment of the short-segment group were greater than those of the long-segment group. So the long-segment fixation could better maintain the stability of the fractured vertebra. (3) The stress on the internal fixing device was mainly concentrated on the screws at both ends and the part of the rod. The maximum stress of the long-segment group was greater than that of the short-segment group, but the main stress area of the screws at both ends was smaller compared with the short- segment group.and the displacements in the left and right directions were the most obvious. In the six movement directions, the displacement and maximum stress of the injured segment of the short-segment group were greater than those of the long-segment group. So the long- segment fixation could better maintain the stability of the fractured vertebra. (3) The stress on the internal fixing device was mainly concentrated on the screws at both ends and the part of the rod. The maximum stress of the long-segment group was greater than that of the short-segment group, but the main stress area of the screws at both ends was smaller compared with the short-segment group.and the displacements in the left and right directions were the most obvious. In the six movement directions, the displacement and maximum stress of the injured segment of the short-segment group were greater than those of the long-segment group. So the long- segment fixation could better maintain the stability of the fractured vertebra. (3) The stress on the internal fixing device was mainly concentrated on the screws at both ends and the part of the rod. The maximum stress of the long-segment group was greater than that of the short-segment group, but the main stress area of the screws at both ends was smaller compared with the short-segment group.So the long-segment fixation could better maintain the stability of the fractured vertebra. (3) The stress on the internal fixing device was mainly concentrated on the screws at both ends and the part of the rod. The maximum stress of the long-segment group was greater than that of the short-segment group, but the main stress area of the screws at both ends was smaller compared with the short-segment group. So the long-segment fixation could better maintain the stability of the fractured vertebra. (3) The stress on the internal fixing device was mainly concentrated on the screws at both ends and the part of the rod. The maximum stress of the long-segment group was greater than that of the short-segment group, but the main stress area of the screws at both ends was smaller compared with the short-segment group.

Early- and mid-term effects of trans-injured and cross-injured vertebra pedicle screw fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: The bone trabecula of the vertebral body cannot be fully recovered, and the mechanical stability of the sagittal position of the spinal column Is affected. The antl-bendlng force and the anti-torsion force of the short-segment fixation of fractured vertebra are obviously Increased. The bearing load of various activities such as flexion, extension, and rotation of the vertebral body is increased. The stability of the injured vertebra is better maintained, and favorable conditions are created for fracture healing. OBJECTIVE: To compare the early- and mid-term follow-up results of trans-injured and cross-injured vertebra pedicle screw fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. METHODS: Eighty-eight patients with thoracolumbar vertebrae fracture treated in Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University from April 2017 to April 2018 were divided into trans-injured vertebra group and cross-injured vertebra group according to the treatment plan. All patients signed the informed consent. This study was approved by the Hospital Ethics Committee. Intraoperative blood loss, operation time, postoperative bed rest time, postoperative site infection, and subcutaneous hematoma were analyzed in both groups. Visual analogue scale score, Oswestry Disability Index, anterior edge height ratio and kyphosis Cobb angle were compared before surgery, 6 and 12 months after surgery between the two groups. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The operation time was longer and intraoperative blood loss was higher in the trans-injured group than those in the cross-injured group, but the postoperative bed rest time was shorter in the trans-injured group than that in the cross-injured group (P 0.05). (3) At 6 and 12 months after surgery, visual analogue scale score and Oswestry Disability Index were lower in the trans-injured group than in the cross-injured group; anterior edge height ratio was larger in the trans-injured group than in the cross-injured group; kyphosis Cobb angle was smaller in the trans-injured group than in the cross-injured group (all P < 0.05). (4) Incidence of complications was higher in the cross-injured group (30%) than in the trans-injured group (7%) (P=0.001). (5) The treatment of thoracolumbar fracture with trans-injured pedicle screw can not only effectively restore and maintain the injured vertebral height and kyphosis Cobb angle, restore the physiological height and curvature of vertebral body, but also the incidence of postoperative complications is low, which can effectively improve the prognosis of patients and improve the quality of life of patients.

Cirugía mínimamente invasiva en el tratamiento de fracturas tóracolumbares / Minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures

Objetivo: Analizar y describir una serie de fracturas tóraco-lumbares traumáticas tratadas con cirugía mínimamente invasiva. Material y métodos: Analizamos una serie de 26 pacientes con fracturas traumáticas tóraco-lumbosacras entre 2010-2017. Las imágenes pre-operatorias fueron clasificadas usando la clasificación AO. Analizamos en forma pre y post operatoria: escala visual analógica, volumen de pérdida sanguínea, duración de la hospitalización, complicaciones, cirugías asociadas en otros órganos, extracción de implantes en el largo plazo, estado neurológico pre y post quirúrgico y mortalidad.Los pacientes con historias clínicas completas, TAC pre-operatoria y un seguimiento mínimo de 12 meses fueron incluidos (18 hombres y 8 mujeres). La edad promedio fue de 28.7 años (21-84 años); seguimiento promedio de 28 meses (13-86 meses). Dieciocho pacientes fueron manejados con instrumentaciones percutáneas, 8 recibieron vertebroplastias, y en 5 casos se realizó además algún gesto de artrodesis. Resultados: La EVA mejoró 7 puntos promedio respecto al pre-operatorio; el promedio de sangrado fue de 40 mL, no observamos ningún caso de empeoramiento neurológico. La duración promedio de la hospitalización fue de 3.9 días. Cuatro enfermos necesitaron alguna cirugía en otro órgano producto de sus politraumatismos.Los tornillos percutáneos fueron removidos en 9 casos luego de la consolidación. Como complicaciones tuvimos: 1 hematoma retroperitoneal autolimitado, una fractura pedicular y una cánula de cementación rota adentro de un pedículo. Conclusión: La cirugía mínimamente invasiva en trauma espinal es una alternativa válida que permite estabilización, movilización precoz y logra buenos resultados en términos de control del dolor con baja tasa de complicaciones

Objective: To analyze and describe a series of trauma-related thoraco-lumbo-sacral vertebral fractures managed with minimally invasive surgery. Methods: We retrospectively review the charts and images of 26 patients with thoracolumbar spine fractures between 2010-2017. Pre-op images were assessed and fractures were classified according to the thoraco-lumbar trauma AO Spine classification. We analyzed pre and post-surgical visual analog scale (VAS), blood loss during surgery, hospital length of stay, complications, associated surgical procedures, long term post-op implant removal, pre and post neurological status and mortality.Patients with a complete case record, pre-op CT scans and minimum 12-month follow up were included (18 males and 8 females). Mean age was 28.7 years (21-84 years); mean post-op follow up was 28 month (13-86 months). Eighteen patients were managed with percutaneous instrumentation, 8 patients also received percutaneous vertebroplasty, and 5 patients underwent also some arthrodesis procedure. Results: VAS improved 7 points as compared to the pre-op score; mean blood loss was 40 mL, we did not observed any neurological deficit worsening. Mean hospital length of stay was 3.9 days. Four patients needed surgical procedures involving other organs due to politrauma. Percutaneous screws were removed in 9 cases after fracture consolidation. Complications were: one case of self-limiting retroperitoneal hematoma, one case of pedicle screw fracture and one cement broken cannula into the pedicle. Conclusion: Minimally invasive surgery in spine trauma is a valid option allowing stabilization, early mobilization, and leading to good outcomes in terms of pain control and a lower complication rate

Correction of kyphotic deformity due to neglected fracture dislocation thoracolumbar spine with posterior vertebral column resection

Kyphotic deformity is serious problem for sagittal spinal balance and resulting back pain, neurologic impairment, and also cosmetic problem. Post traumatic kyphotic deformity most common occur following unstable spine. A circumferential approach with anterior release via discectomies and corpectomies, followed by posterior instrumentation and fusion has been the standard of care. This is a case of progressive post traumatic kyphotic deformity due to fracture dislocation which was performed laminectomy without posterior instrumentation and succesfully corrected with single step posterior vertebral column resection.

Biomechanical Characteristics of Internal Fixation Methods for Treating Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures / 医用生物力学

Objective To analyze the biomechanical characteristics of 3 different posterior internal fixation methods for treating thoracolumbar burst fracture by three-dimensional finite element (FE) method. Methods The FE fixation models of normal thoracolumbar, short-segment posterior fixation (SSPF), short-segment posterior fixation with intermediate screws at fractured level (SSPFI) and long-segment posterior fixation (LSPF) were established, respectively. The biomechanical characteristics of L1 centrum and the adjacent intervertebral disc under 6 kinds of motion states (spinal flexion, extension, lateral bending and axial rotation), in normal thoracolumbar model and 3 fixation models were compared by FE analysis. Results L1 centrum equivalent stress distributions in normal thoracolumbar model, SSPF model, SSPFI model, LSPF model were 31.63, 13.41, 110.35, 13.17 MPa, respectively. The maximum equivalent stress of adjacent intervertebral disc in normal thoracolumbar model was 3.84 MPa, which was located in L1-2 intervertebral disc; the maximum equivalent stress of adjacent intervertebral disc in 3 fixation models was 0.41, 0.36, 0.40 MPa, respectively, which was all located in T12-L1 intervertebral disc. Conclusions Fixation in short segment of the fractured vertebrae could lead to an increase of stress in the centrum. The stress of the adjacent intervertebral disc in 3 fixation models was smaller than that in normal spinal model.

Surgical treatment strategy for the "shell" phenomenon after thoracolumbar fracture / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To explore the surgical treatment strategy of the vertebral "shell" after thoracolumbar fracture, and provide clinical reference for the intervention and treatment of "shell". Methods: Between June 2015 and January 2017, 53 patients with high risk of vertebral "shell" after thoracolumbar fracture surgery were enrolled in a prospective study according to the selection criteria. All patients were randomly divided into two groups according to the order of treatment, 27 cases in the treatment group were treated with short-segment fixation combined with vertebral reconstruction, 26 cases in the control group were treated with short-segment fixation. There was no significant difference in gender, age, injury cause, Denis classification, fracture segment, the degree of injured vertebra compression, bone mineral density, and American Spinal Cord Injury Association (ASIA) classification between the two groups ( P>0.05). The degree of injured vertebra compression, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, and Oswestry disability index (ODI) score at preoperation, immediate after operation, and last follow-up were calculated and compared between the two groups. The "shell" phenomenon and surgery complications were observed at the same time. Results: All patients were followed up 12-18 months with an average of 14.4 months. There were 5 cases of "shell" phenomenon in the treatment group and 4 cases of nonunion at last follow-up, 23 cases of "shell" phenomenon in the control group and 19 cases of nonunion at last follow-up; there was a significant difference between the two groups ( P0.05), but which was significantly higher in the control group than that in the treatment group at last follow-up ( P0.05). Conclusion: The treatment of thoracolumbar fracture with short-segment fixation combined with injured vertebral reconstruction can effectively prevent the "shell" phenomenon, which is conducive to maintaining the height of injured vertebral and improving the long-term function. The effectiveness is satisfactory.

To fix the unstable region of sagittal injured unit symmetrically with pedicle screws combined with bone graft fusion for treating thoracolumbar fractures / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To discuss the security and effectiveness of fixing the unstable region of sagittal injured unit symmetrically with pedicle screws combined with bone graft fusion for treating thoracolumbar fractures. Methods: A series of 65 patients with a single level thoracolumbar fracture between November 2011 and November 2015 were included in the study. There were 41 males and 24 females with an average age of 36.7 years (range, 23-60 years). The fracture segments included T 7 1 case, T 9 in 2 cases, T 10 in 4 cases, T 11 in 8 cases, T 12 in 14 cases, L 1 in 19 cases, L 2 in 13 cases, L 3 in 3 cases, and L 4 in 1 case. According to AO classification, there were 34 cases classified as type A, 27 cases type B, and 4 cases type C. The neurological function was evaluated by American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grade score, there were 1 case at grade A, 2 cases grade B, 6 cases grade C, 15 cases grade D, and 41 cases grade E. The thoracolumbar injury severity score (TLICS) was 4 in 9 cases, 5 in 29 cases, 6-8 in 23 cases, 9-10 in 4 cases. The time form injury to operation was 2-12 days (mean, 5.3 days). The fractured vertebra, along with the superior and inferior discs were defined as a injured unit and divided into three parts on the sagittal position: region Ⅰ mainly including the superior disc, cephalic 1/3 of injured vertebra, and posterior ligamentous complex as to oppose; region Ⅱ mainly including the middle 1/3 of injured vertebra, pedicles, lamina, spinous process, and supraspinal ligament; region Ⅲ mainly including the inferior disc, caudal 1/3 of injured vertebra, and posterior ligamentous complex as to oppose. The unstable region was defined as the key injured region of the vertebra. Pedicle screws were fixed symmetrically and correspondingly with bone grafting to treat thoracolumbar fractures. The neurological status, ratio of anterior body height, and sagittal Cobb angle were collected at preoperation, immediate after operation, and last follow-up to evaluate surgical and clinical outcomes. Results: All patients accepted operation safely and were followed up 12-24 months (mean, 17.3 months). Cerebrospinal fluid leakage occurred in 3 patients, and cured by symptomatic treatment. There was no complications such as loosening, displacement, and breakage of internal fixator. Bony fusion was achieved in all patients at 10-13 months (mean, 11.4 months) after operation. At last follow-up, according to ASIA grading, 1 case was grade A, 1 grade B, 3 grade C, 9 grade D, and 51 grade E, showing significant difference when compared with preoperative data ( Z=-2.963, P=0.014). The ratio of anterior body height at preoperation, immediate after operation, and last follow-up were 53.2%±6.8%, 91.3%±8.3%, 89.5%±6.6% respectively; and the sagittal Cobb angle were (16.3±8.1), (2.6±7.5), (3.2±6.8)° respectively. The ratio of anterior body height and the sagittal Cobb angle at immediate after operation and at last follow-up were significantly improved when compared with preoperative values ( P0.05). Conclusion: It is safe and reliable to treat thoracolumbar fractures under the principle of fixing the unstable region of injured unit symmetrically with pedicle screws combined with bone grafting.

Clinical curative effect of percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for thoracolumbar fracture / 局解手术学杂志

Objective To discuss the clinical curative effect of percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for thoracolumbar fracture.Methods Retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 43 patients with thoracolumbar fracture who underwent PVP combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation in our hospital from November 2015 to June 2017.Those patients included 28 males and 15 females,and the age of patients ranged from 50 to 66 years old,with an average age of(58.26 ±3.67)years old.The func-tional outcome were evaluated by VAS scores and ODI scores before and after the operation.The sagittal Cobb angle was used to evaluate the reduction of fracture.Results All these patients all successfully completed the operation,and there was no complications after operation.The operation time ranged from 60 to 126 min,with an average time of(96.07 ±15.69)min;the blood loss ranged from 60 to 180 min,with an average time of(113.26 ±24.7)min.All the patients were followed up for 4 to 23 months,with an average time of(12.07 ±4.01)months. The VAS score,ODI score and sagittal Cobb angle were significantly decreased in the last follow -up period compared with those before surgery,and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).Conclusion PVP combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar fracture has smaller incision,less blood loss,shorter operation time and better improvement of local pain,func-tional movement and kyphosis.

Feasibility of implementing percutaneous kyphoplasty in field comprehensive surgical shelter / 医疗卫生装备

Objective To investigate the feasibility to execute percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP) in the field comprehensive surgical shelter during kinds of natural disasters. Methods Five experimental pigs underwent PKP in a comprehensive surgical shelter during simulated natural disasters, and were observed for operating time, intraoperative blood loss, complications and postoperative survival rate. Results All the 5 pigs had the operations completed successfully with high postoperative performances in extremities motion and survival rate, and the mean operating time was(43±5.7)min and the mean intraoperative blood loss was (42±3.6)ml.Cement penetrated into the intervertebral space of one pig with satisfactory extremities motion,while no complications occurred in the other pigs.Conclusion The comprehensive surgical shelter proves to enable PKP,and thus extends emergency treatment to the frontier during simulated natural disasters.

Wiltse approach versus conventional posterior midline approach for single thoracolumbar fracture:A Me-ta-analysis / 实用医学杂志

Objective To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of Wiltse approach and conven-tional posterior midline approach for single thoracolumbar fracture. Methods Databases including Embase, PubMed,cnki,WanFang Data were searched to collect the related literatures for single thoracolumbar fracture treated with surgery of Wiltse approach and conventional posterior midline approach. The data were collected and evaluated by different reviewers independently and the Meta analysis was conducted by using the RevMan 5.3. Results A total of 6 literatures involving 351 patients were included. The results of Meta-analysis showed that there were significant differences in surgical duration,intraoperative bleeding,postoperative discharge volume, and visual analog score(VAS)(P < 0.000 01). There was no significant difference between the Cobb angle(P =0.69)and the fanterior edge convex height(P=0.46).Conclusions Wiltse approach is superior to conventional posterior midline approach for single thoracolumbar fracture with shorter surgical duration,less intraoperative blood loss,less postoperative discharge and lower incidence of postoperative backache. It reduces spine malformation, maintains height of the fanterior edge convex.Wiltse approach is a safe and feasible surgical technique for treating single thoracolumbar fracture.

Unilateral Wiltse intermuscular approach and contralateral decompression for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fracture / 中国骨伤

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To compare the clinical effects and multifidus muscle injury of different approaches, including unilateral Wiltse intermuscular approach and intramuscular approach combined with contralateral decompression, in treating thoracolumbar burst fracture.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Forty-three patients with thoracolumbar burst fracture were enrolled in the study from January 2010 to December 2014, including 29 males and 14 females with an average age of 42.3 years old(ranged from 21 to 64 years old). The patients were treated with posterior pedicle screw fixation and unilateral decompression and were divided into Wiltse intermuscular approach group (group A) and intramuscular approach group (group B) according to surgical approach. Operation time and intraoperative bleeding were recorded for all patients; visual analogue scale(VAS) was compared 1 d preoperatively, 1 week, 12 months postoperatively between two groups; preoperation and 12 months postoperatively, the fractured vertebral canal and two-sides multifidus muscle of the same section were observed and compared by CT measure between two groups.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All the patients were follow-up for 14 to 21 months with an average of 16.3 months. Partial wound non-healing occurred in 3 patients and the wound ultimately healing after debridgement suture and change dressings. No screw breakage was found. There was significant difference in operation and intraoperative bleeding operation between two groups (<0.05), while there was no significant difference in VAS score of 1 d preoperatively, 1 week, 12 months postoperatively between two groups(>0.05). As for CT measurement results, postoperative vertebral canal narrow ratio was significant decreased in all patients(<0.05), while perioperative changes of the two-sides multifidus muscle cross section area and density were significant in group A (<0.05), but there was no significant difference in group B (>0.05). Neurologic status of all patients got recovery at final follow-up.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The method of unilateral Wiltse intermuscular approach combined with contralateral decompression for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fracture has good clinical effects, also it is less invasive and less damage to multifidus muscle compared with intramuscular approach.</p>

Imaging study of "shell" phenomenon of thoracolumbar fractures after posterior reduction / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To analyze the imaging characteristics of vertebral "shell" phenomenon of thoracolumbar fractures after posterior reduction and to explore the relationship between vertebral "shell" and fracture healing.

Comparative study of decompression and non-decompression surgeries in treatment of thoracolumbar fractures with intraspinal occupying and without neurological symptoms / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of posterior non-decompression surgery in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures without neurological symptoms by comparing with the conventional posterior decompression surgery.

Application of Sextant system fixation for patients with thoracolumbar fractures in field comprehensive operation rescue shelter / 局解手术学杂志

Objective To discuss the short-term effect of Sextant system fixation for thoracolumbar fractures without neurological deficit in the field comprehensive operation rescue shelter.Methods There were 32 patients with thoracolumbar fractures without neurological deficit which rescued by our hospital.Those patients included 18 males and 14 females, with average age of (25.54±2.86) years old.All patients were undergoing internal fixation with Sextant system in the field comprehensive operation rescue shelter.Clinical and surgical evaluation including surgery time,intraoperative blood loss,postoperative ambulation time and wound healing time were observed.Functional outcomes of pre-operation and postoperation 3-days were evaluated by visual analog scale(VAS) and Oswestry disability index(ODI).Cobb angle and front height of fracture vertebral body were compared between pre-operation and postoperation 3-days.Results The operation time was (96.55±14.15)minutes, intraoperative blood loss was (45.25±3.55)mL, postoperative ambulation time was (1.20±0.61)days.There were statistical differences in terms of Cobb angle,front height of fracture vertebral body,VAS and ODI between pre-operation and postoperation 3 days.Conclusion The Sextant system fixation in the field comprehensive operation rescue shelter is a timely,safe and effective method for thoracolumbar fractures without neurological deficit,which is deserved to utilize at the scene when war or disaster urgency treatment.