The Infection of the Posterior Compartment of the Vertebra: A Report of 3 Cases / 대한정형외과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

Infectious process involves infrequently the posterior compartment of the vertebra. Three cases of such condition are experienced at the Dept. of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University during the period of August 1962 to June 1971 Two of three cases were from pyogenic infection invoIving the spinous process of third and fourth lumbar vertebra respectively, one of which was complicated by formation of paraspinal abscess and both were treated with total laminectomy of the involved vertebrae. Thee third case was tuberculosis on the transverse process of first thoracic vertebra which was accompanied by irritating sign of left ulnar nerve, and was treated with transversectomy and partial laminectomy. Excellent results were obtained without recurrence and no deformity nor instability of the spine developed postoperativeIy.