Surgical management of spinal tuberculosis using anterior approach: a review of 125 cases

ABSTRACT

Of the 205 cases of spinal tuberculosis diagnosed during a 15 year period [1979 -1994], 125 cases were treated by anterior spinal surgery. Surgical treatment consisted of anterior decompression, debridement and fusion, using autogenous iliac or rib bone graft following Hodgson's technique. In cases with involvement of both anterior and posterior elements and in those with unstable spine after anterior surgery, posterior fusion was also performed. Antituberculous chemotherapy was administered pre - and postoperatively in all cases. The average follow-up was 15.5 months [15 days to 8 years]. There were six complications and three mortalities. No pseudarthrosis or increased kyphotic deformity occurred. Results were rated as excellent in 64%, good in 31.2% and poor in 4.8%. It is concluded that anterior spinal fusion is a safe and effective method of treatment for vertebral body involvement in spinal tuberculosis