Long-term results of thoracolumbar fracture treatment with AF pedicle system / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the long term results of thoracolumbar fractures treatment with AF (atlas fixator) pedicle system. Methods The clinical results of 60 cases of thoracolumbar fractures treated with AF pedicle system from 1996 2000 were analyzed retrospectively. Results The follow ups lasted from 3 to 6 years, averaging 4 years. The neurological function improved by at least 2 ASIA grades in 27 cases and by 1 ASIA grade in 33 cases. The correction of the vertebral body height averaged 95.1%, and the correction loss averaged 19.7%. Degeneration and narrowing of the disc space next to the fractured vertebrae were common, and correction loss was most evident at the upper disc spaces. Conclusions The AF pedicle system can achieve good long term clinical results for the recovery of neurological function and the vertebral body height. But the rates of implant failure and correction loss are still high probably due to deficiency of bone grafting and delayed implant removal.