Short versus long-segment posterior fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar junction fractures: a comparison of outcomes

Abstract

Our data identified a trend towards better clinical and radiological outcomes in the LSPF, compared to the SSPF group. Although supported by some studies, these findings should be evaluated in future clinical trials.

A Comparison of Three Different Methods of Fixation in the Management of Thoracolumbar Fractures

“…18 Although there was no statistical significance between the 3 different levels of fixation, the superiority of the 2/2 construct on fracture reduction and maintenance of correction can be because of the extra stiffness and strength it provides compared to the other constructs. 12 Tezeren et al compared 2/2 vs. 1/ 1 fixations and found similar results; 2/2 fixations being superior at both reducing and controlling the fracture. The same conclusion was made by Waqar et al in their series looking at long vs. short fixations.…”

“…The same conclusion was made by Waqar et al in their series looking at long vs. short fixations. 12 On the contrary Sapkas et al found that both long and short fixation reduce the fracture equally well but long fixation control it better in the long term. 19 Park et al compared fixations of 1/1 vs. 2/1 and found no differences in fracture reduction and maintenance of the correction.…”

“…Both Waqar and Sapkas report higher incidence of metal work failure compared to this series. 12,19 A systematic review by Phan et al 22 concluded that there was a statistical difference between MIS and Open approach in length of hospital stay. This statistical significance was not observed in our cohort of patients, quite possibly as many of our patients were polytrauma patients.…”

“…The number of fixation levels above and below the fracture is still contentious in the literature. 12 The results in terms of fracture reduction and long term control of the kyphosis are debatable. 13,14 General surgical approach either minimally invasive surgery (MIS) or an open approach was down to surgeons approach.…”

Treatment of thoracolumbar fractures by temporary posterior instrumentation with selective fusion schemes

“…Fractures of the thoracolumbar junction and upper lumbar spine (T12-L2) are common injuries as a result of high-energy trauma with potentially devastating consequences including pain, neurological injury, and loss of function [1]. The main strategy of surgical treatment for thoracolumbar fractures (TLF) has been neurologic decompression, anatomic reduction, stabilization, and fusion [2,3].…”