RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To identify the usefulness of using a locally built Khon Kaen Mobile Traction Unit (KK-MTU) to assist clarification of anatomy of the spines, decompression of cauda equina and spinal nerve roots, posterior relocation of the diseased spines, application of pedicular screws and fixation of the spines in anterior spondylolisthesis surgery. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Fifty patients with spondylolisthesis had surgery from orthopedic surgeons that used the KK-MTU in a clinical trials phase to assist the operation at the Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Khon Kaen Hospital, between January 6, 2006 and February 11, 2008. RESULTS: Outcomes of spondylolisthesis surgery in 50 patients with the application of this equipment suggests that the operation time and blood loss can be reduced because of the reduction of abdominal pressure. The surgeons also stated that the unit helped to clarify the anatomy of the spines. Moreover, it can ease complications that might arise during the operation due to its facilitated decompression, fixation, and application of other instruments during the surgeries. CONCLUSION: Newly locally built KK-MTU could facilitate orthopedic surgeries by clarifying the anatomy, reducing, decompressing, and having tools fixed for spondylolisthesis surgery.