Anterlor Fusion for the Tuberenlosis of the Spine / 대한정형외과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

The anterior fusion became the popular measure in the treatment of the tuberculosis of the spine. We analysed the 208 cases of the tuberculosis of the spine (174 anterior fusion) who were treated at our department during the period of 1966 to 1973 and compared these results with that obtained during the period of 1957 to 1966. Following has been observed from this comparison. 1. Spine was the most common site in bone and joint tuberculosis (51.7%) but with decreasing tendency. And it was followed by hip, knee, ankle and sacroiliac joints of order. 2. Common age incidence was below 30 years (72.7%) and most common in below 5 years (20.7%). 3. Average duration of disease was 2 years and 2 months. This value was 6 months lower than in previous study. 4. The most common site was changed from lumbar to thoracic vertebrae. 5. The incidence of sinus, cold abscess formation decreased but paraplegia increased in incedence due to high prevalence in thoracic vertebrae. 6. Anterior fusion was performed in 86.1% of the cases. 7. Postoperative complications was found in 17.2%. Adequate rnanagement of chest tube in thoracic areas and blood vessels in lumbosacral areas may be necessary.