Anterior decompression and stabilization of thoracolumbar burst fractures

ABSTRACT

Twelve patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures were managed with one-stage anterior decompression, fusion and instrumentation with Kaneda system. The indications for surgery were neurologic deficit secondary to canal compromising 50% or more, kyphotic deformities greater than 20 degrees, 50% or more loss of the vertebral body height and progressive neurologic deficit. The average follow up was 14 months [range 10-18 months]. After the anterior decompression, the neurologic function improved by at least one grade, except in one patient with complete paralysis. The postoperative kyphotic angle ranged from -5 to 15 degrees [average 5 degrees] and it ranged from -3 to 18 degrees [average 6.7 degrees] at the most recent follow up. No serious complications were developed during all surgeries. During the follow up, implant failure occurred in two patients