Treatment of unstable upper and middle thoracic vertebrae fractures with vertebral pedicle screw / 中华创伤杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the clinical effect of pedicle screw fixation in treatment of unstable upper and middle thoracic vertebrae fractures. Methods A retrospective study was performed on 17 cases of unstable upper and middle thoracic vertebrae fractures treated with vertebral pedicle screw system (GSS 全称in 11 cases and USS 全称in six) fixation, posterolateral bone grafting and fusion from March 2001 on. There were one case of T_3, two T_4, two T_5, four T_6, six T_7 and two T_8. Of all, nine cases were with compression fractures, five with fracture-dislocation and three with burst fractures. Results All cases were followed up for 10-38 months (average 21.1 months). During the follow up, the anterior vertebral body height was restored from preoperative 40% to postoperative 91%. Except for four screw malpositions, there was no postoperative neurologic deterioration, screw loose or breakage of the internal fixation, or loss of the normal spine curve and the spinal height of the injured vertebra. Conclusions Pedicle screw fixation is an effective way for treating unstable upper and middle thoracic vertebrae fractures. Correct placement depend on a comprehensive familiarity of pedicle anatomy, appropriate pedicle diameter and entry point and depth can avoid potential risks in placing pedicle screws into the upper and middle thorax.