Epidemiological study and clinical and occupational outcomes in thoracic and lumbar fractures subjected to arthrodesis and posterior instrumentation

摘要

Objetive To assess the long-term course of thoracolumbar fractures treated exclusively via the posterior approach, with evaluation of the loss of correction. Materials and methods: The study was based on 91 patients presenting thoracolumbar fractures without neurological damage subjected to posterior instrumentation and posterolateral arthrodesis over a period of 15 years. A statistical analysis was made of the outcome of kyphosis and vertebral collapse in the lateral X-ray study, involving a minimum follow-up of 6 years. Results No differences were observed in either clinical outcome or hospital stay in relation to patient age or gender. However, there were differences in the complications associated with the use of long instrumentations, and both long and short instrumentations resulted in a loss of correction over time that proved greater in the case of the latter. Conclusions The plain lateral spinal X-ray study is useful for the follow-up and control of the outcome in the sagittal plane of thoracolumbar fractures - the most sensitive parameter being the fracture angle. Key words Thoracic and lumbar spine, kyphosis, instrumentation, lateral X-ray projection. Correspondencia:R Lorente MorenoServicio de Traumatología y Cirugía Ortopédica.Hospital Clínico ?Infanta Cristina?. Avda. Elvas, s. 06080 Badajoz. Espa?a. e-mail: rlorentem@hotmail.com