Evaluation of the results of posterior decompression, posterolateral fusion and stabilization by pedicle screw and rod in traumatic thoracolumbar fractures

This study is to evaluate the clinical and radiological success of posterior decompression, posterolateral fusion and stabilization by pedicle screw and rod in the management of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures. It is a prospective interventional study which is carried out in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and different private hospitals in Dhaka city from January 2008 to December 2010. Total 16 patients were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. There were 10 male patients and 06 female within a age range of 21-40 years. Mean age was 33.32 years. Total 08 cases involved L1, 03 cases involved at D12, 02 cases involved at D11 and at L2 each whereas 01 case at L3. Total 10 cases were of compression fracture and remainder 06 burst fractures. Ten (10) patients presented with paraparesis, 05 patients with incomplete paraplegia and 01 patient with complete paraplegia. All the patients were followed up for minimum 1 year. Patients with paraparesis fully recovered neurologically and could walk without support. All the 05 patients with incomplete paraplegia also recovered fully except 01 which gained partial improvement and walks with aids. One patient with complete paraplegia remained unchanged. Our results show that posterior decompression posterolateral fusion and stabilization by pedicle screw and rod provides a safe and effective surgical option for management of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i3.9121 BMRCB 2011; 37(3): 97-101