Anterior approach operation of thoracolumbar fractures through limited incision / 中国矫形外科杂志

ABSTRACT

[Objective]To investigate the surgical method and clinical effects of the anterior approach operation in the treatment of thoraco-lumbar vertebral fractures through limited incision.[Method]Thirty-four cases of bursting fracture of thoracolumbar vertebral body were treated with the operation of anterior decompression,bone grafting and internal fixation by the anterior retropleuro-peritoneum approach.The MRI combined with clinical examination,X-ray,CT results were taken as selection criteria of treatment.[Result]Thirty-four cases were treated with this operative technich.Hemorrhage capacity is about 300-800ml with average 600ml.The operation time was 2-2.5 hours.All patients were followed-up with an average period of 18 months(ranged,6-24months).No aggravation of nerve injury appeared in 34 cases.X-ray manifested good fusion,no broken nails and no recurrence of kyphosis was found in all cases.[Conclusion]Anterior approach operation through limited incision is an effective way for severe thoracolumbar fractures. It has significantly low complication and allow early recovery of function.