Indications for early surgical treatment of thoracolumbar burst fracture / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To observe the indications for early surgical trea tment of thoracolumbar burst fracture (TLBF). Methods 139 cases who had been def initely diagnosed as TLBF were analyzed retrospectively. They were divided into 2 groups operation and non-operation. 47 patients had non-surgical treatment, such as bed-rest plaster brace. 92 patients had surgical treatment with plate and root screw. Spinal cord functions were evaluated according to the ASIA metho d. Results All patients were followed up for 6 months to 10 years (averaged 6 y ears and 2 months). Their average kyphosis angle measured with Cobb method was 2 3.5? before the operation and 8.5? after the operation. The average degree o f middle column posterior convexity was 25%～85% before the operation (averag ed 33%) and 0～53% after the operation (averaged 12%). The average height of anterior column was 45% before the operation and 85% after the operation. T he average degree of spinal stenosis was 30%～85% before the operation (avera ged 55%) and 0-50% after the operation (averaged 20%). There were more case s whose neural function recovered to grade E in the operation group than in the non-operation group (P