ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The reconstruction of the anterior column of the thoracolumbar spine is still controversial. METHODS: The clinical notes and radiographs of 50 consecutive patients (29 M, 21 F, 43 years) treated with the Synex implant were reviewed at operation and at 12 and 20 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Of 45 patients, 25 returned to pre-injury activities within 1 year and 29 of 39 within 20 months. Two-thirds of the patients who were followed up returned to their job. After 1 year 25 of 45 patients had no or mild limitations in their back function. Six months later this group decreased to 6 of 39 patients. Visual analog scale (VAS) decreased from 87/100 preoperatively to 65/100 at the 1-year follow-up. The average permanent reduction of the injured vertebrae was 16.9 degrees including 2.3 degrees loss of correction. CONCLUSION: After reconstruction of the anterior column with the Synex implant only a minimal loss of correction or reduction was observed. The clinical outcome after use of the Synex implant appears promising. We recommend this implant as a valuable alternative for reconstruction of the anterior column of the thoracolumbar spine. However, long-term results are still required.
