Treatment of unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures: a comparison between anterior approach and posterior approach / 中华创伤杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To retrospectively analyse the anterior and posterior surgical approaches in treatment of unstable burst thoracolumbar fractures and compare radiographic measurement parameters of beth surgical techniques so as to provide references for surgical treatment of such kind of fracture. Methods The study selected 41 patients with unstable thoracolumbar fracture treated with either anterior neurodecomprossion and fixation (n=19) or posterior reposition and internal fixation by pedicle screw (n=22) from January 2003 to December 2005. All patients were followed up for 24-48 months ( mean 38 months) and divided into anterior approach group and posterior approach group. Sagittal alignment was assessed by the Cobb angle depending on lateral radiographs. Results The Cobb angle of the anterior approach group was average 27.3°on admission but 3.1°postoperatively and 4.6° at follow-up; while the Cobb angle of posterior approach was average 26.1° on admission, 3.0°postoperatively and 12.5°at follow-up. There was no statistical difference between Cobb angle on admission and postoperative one (P>0.05) but showed significant differences between them at follow-up ( P<0.01). Conclusion The anterior surgical approach can consistently yield better maintenance of kyphotic correction compared with the posterior surgical approach.