A Clinical Analysis of Surgically Managed Tuberculous Spondylitis

ABSTRACT

Fourty three patients with tuberculous spondylitis were surgically treated through the anterior approach at our hospital from January, 1989 to December, 1994. Among them, 32 cases were followed up more than 18 months postoperatively, and were included in this study. The most prevalent location was lumbar region(50%). Paraparesis was frequently seen in patients with middle and lower thoracic spinal lesions and all patients with neurologic deficits improved after decompression of spinal cord. Autogenous rib and/or iliac strut bone grafting was performed, followed by spinal instrumentation. Solid bone fusion was obtained in all patients. There was no need for prolongation of duration of antituberculous drug therapy and no increased incidence of secondary infection due to spinal instrumentation.