Comparison of operative and nonoperative treatment for thoracolumbar burst fractures in patients without neurological deficit: a systematic review

Contiguous Burst Fractures of the Lumbar Spine

Burst fractures of vertebrae are usually caused by high-energy axial compression force, mostly caused by fall from height or road traffic accidents. They frequently occur at the thoracolumbar junction mostly requiring surgery. Contiguous burst fractures involving multiple lumbar vertebrae are uncommon. This case is a male in his early 40s presented with low back pain and weakness of lower limbs following an injury sustained during a road traffic accident. Clinically, the patient had a bilateral foot drop. On radiological evaluation, he was diagnosed to have L3 and L4 burst fractures with spinal canal occlusion. He underwent posterior stabilization from L2-L5 and decompression at the L3-L4 level. At one-year follow-up, the patient was pain-free with complete neurological recovery. Contiguous lumbar spine burst fractures are very rare in occurrence. Though burst fractures are managed surgically to provide stability, the surgical approaches depend on the individual fracture pattern, degree of spinal canal occlusion, and neurological status.

Unilateral Pediculectomy and Reduction with Short-Segment Pedicle Screw Fixation for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture: A Case Series

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of unilateral pediculectomy and reduction with short-segment pedicle screw fixation for thoracolumbar burst fracture.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent a unilateral pediculectomy and reduction with short-segment fixation and interbody fusion for thoracolumbar burst fracture. The unilateral pediculectomy created sufficient space to approach the ventral side of the spinal cord for removing bone fragments and insertion of an interbody cage to correct kyphosis. Lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI) minus LL, and segmental Cobb angle were measured at 3 time points: preoperatively, postoperatively, and final follow-up. Furthermore, sagittal vertical axis (SVA) was measured to assess global sagittal balance at the final follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 10 patients, with a mean age of 39.8 ± 21.0, underwent the surgical procedure. All patients had a thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score > 5. The mean follow-up period was 15.8 ± 13.9 months. The mean postoperative LL (46.0 ± 5.8) was significantly higher (P = 0.008) than the preoperative measurement (32.8 ± 8.2). The mean postoperative PI minus LL (2.2 ± 8.4) was not significantly lower (P = 0.051) than preoperative measurement (15.4 ± 12.6). The mean postoperative segmental Cobb angle (11.4 ± 8.4) was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than the preoperative measurement (-11.6 ± 10.9). At the final follow-up, the mean sagittal vertical axiswas 10.0 ± 28.8 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Unilateral pediculectomy and reduction with short-segment fixation and interbody fusion served as an efficient surgical method for thoracolumbar burst fracture.

Predictive Algorithm for Surgery Recommendation in Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures Without Neurological Deficits

STUDY DESIGN

Predictive algorithm via decision tree.

OBJECTIVES

Artificial intelligence (AI) remain an emerging field and have not previously been used to guide therapeutic decision making in thoracolumbar burst fractures. Building such models may reduce the variability in treatment recommendations. The goal of this study was to build a mathematical prediction rule based upon radiographic variables to guide treatment decisions.

METHODS

Twenty-two surgeons from the AO Knowledge Forum Trauma reviewed 183 cases from the Spine TL A3/A4 prospective study (classification, degree of certainty of posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) injury, use of M1 modifier, degree of comminution, treatment recommendation). Reviewers' regions were classified as Europe, North/South America and Asia. Classification and regression trees were used to create models that would predict the treatment recommendation based upon radiographic variables. We applied the decision tree model which accounts for the possibility of non-normal distributions of data. Cross-validation technique as used to validate the multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

The accuracy of the model was excellent at 82.4%. Variables included in the algorithm were certainty of PLC injury (%), degree of comminution (%), the use of M1 modifier and geographical regions. The algorithm showed that if a patient has a certainty of PLC injury over 57.5%, then there is a 97.0% chance of receiving surgery. If certainty of PLC injury was low and comminution was above 37.5%, a patient had 74.2% chance of receiving surgery in Europe and Asia vs 22.7% chance in North/South America. Throughout the algorithm, the use of the M1 modifier increased the probability of receiving surgery by 21.4% on average.

CONCLUSION

This study presents a predictive analytic algorithm to guide decision-making in the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficits. PLC injury assessment over 57.5% was highly predictive of receiving surgery (97.0%). A high degree of comminution resulted in a higher chance of receiving surgery in Europe or Asia vs North/South America. Future studies could include clinical and other variables to enhance predictive ability or use machine learning for outcomes prediction in thoracolumbar burst fractures.

Interobserver Reliability in the Classification of Thoracolumbar Fractures Using the AO Spine TL Injury Classification System Among 22 Clinical Experts in Spine Trauma Care

STUDY DESIGN

Reliability study utilizing 183 injury CT scans by 22 spine trauma experts with assessment of radiographic features, classification of injuries and treatment recommendations.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the reliability of the AOSpine TL Injury Classification System (TLICS) including the categories within the classification and the M1 modifier.

METHODS

Kappa and Intraclass correlation coefficients were produced. Associations of various imaging characteristics (comminution, PLC status) and treatment recommendations were analyzed through regression analysis. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used for making predictive algorithms.

RESULTS

Reliability of the AO Spine TLICS at differentiating A3 and A4 injuries (N = 71) (K = .466; 95% CI .458 - .474; P < .001) demonstrated moderate agreement. Similarly, the average intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) amongst A3 and A4 injuries was excellent (ICC = .934; 95% CI .919 - .947; P < .001) and the ICC between individual measures was moderate (ICC = .403; 95% CI .351 - .461; P < .001). The overall agreement on the utilization of the M1 modifier amongst A3 and A4 injuries was fair (K = .161; 95% CI .151 - .171; P < .001). The ICC for PLC status in A3 and A4 injuries averaged across all measures was excellent (ICC = .936; 95% CI .922 - .949; P < .001). The M1 modifier suggests respondents are nearly 40% more confident that the PLC is injured amongst all injuries. The M1 modifier was employed at a higher frequency as injuries were classified higher in the classification system.

CONCLUSIONS

The reliability of surgeons differentiating between A3 and A4 injuries in the AOSpine TLICS is substantial and the utilization of the M1 modifier occurs more frequently with higher grades in the system.

The AO Spine Thoracolumbar Injury Classification System and Treatment Algorithm in Decision Making for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures Without Neurologic Deficit

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective Observational Study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the alignment of the AO Spine Thoracolumbar Injury Classification system and treatment algorithm with contemporary surgical decision making.

METHODS

183 cases of thoracolumbar burst fractures were reviewed by 22 AO Spine Knowledge Forum Trauma experts. These experienced clinicians classified the fracture morphology, integrity of the posterior ligamentous complex and degree of comminution. Management recommendations were collected.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant stepwise increase in rates of operative management with escalating category of injury (P < .001). An excellent correlation existed between recommended expert management and the actual treatment of each injury category: A0/A1/A2 (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.70-1.69, P = .71), A3/4 (OR 1.62, 95% CI 0.98-2.66, P = .58) and B1/B2/C (1.00, 95% CI 0.87-1.14, P = .99). Thoracolumbar A4 fractures were more likely to be surgically stabilized than A3 fractures (68.2% vs 30.9%, P < .001). A modifier indicating indeterminate ligamentous injury increased the rate of operative management when comparing type B and C injuries to type A3/A4 injuries (OR 39.19, 95% CI 20.84-73.69, P < .01 vs OR 27.72, 95% CI 14.68-52.33, P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The AO Spine Thoracolumbar Injury Classification system introduces fracture morphology in a rational and hierarchical manner of escalating severity. Thoracolumbar A4 complete burst fractures were more likely to be operatively managed than A3 fractures. Flexion-distraction type B injuries and translational type C injuries were much more likely to have surgery recommended than type A fractures regardless of the M1 modifier. A suspected posterior ligamentous injury increased the likelihood of surgeons favoring surgical stabilization.

Surgical treatment of traumatic fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine: A systematic review

Introduction

The treatment of traumatic thoracic and lumbar spine fractures remains controversial. To date no consensus exists on the correct choice of surgical approach and technique.

Research question

to provide a comprehensive up-to-date overview of the available different surgical methods and their quantified outcomes.

Methods

PubMed and EMBASE were searched between 2001 and 2020 using the term 'spinal fractures'. Inclusion criteria were: adults, ≥10 cases, ≥12 months follow-up, thoracic or lumbar fractures, and surgery <3 weeks of trauma. Studies were categorized per surgical technique: Posterior open (PO), posterior percutaneous (PP), stand-alone vertebral body augmentation (SA), anterior scopic (AS), anterior open (AO), posterior percutaneous and anterior open (PPAO), posterior percutaneous and anterior scopic (PPAS), posterior open and anterior open (POAO) and posterior open and anterior scopic (POAS). The PO group was used as a reference group.

Results

After duplicate removal 6042 articles were identified. A total of 102 articles were Included, in which 137 separate surgical technique cohorts were described: PO (n = 75), PP, (n = 39), SA (n = 12), AO (n = 5), PPAO (n = 1), PPAS (n = 1), POAO (n = 2) and POAS (n = 2).

Discussion and conclusion

For type A3/A4 burst fractures, without severe neurological deficit, posterior percutaneous (PP) technique seems the safest and most feasible option in the past two decades. If needed, PP can be combined with anterior augmentation to prevent secondary kyphosis. Furthermore, posterior open (PO) technique is feasible in almost all types of fractures. Also, this technique can provide for an additional posterior decompression or fusion. Overall, no neurologic deterioration was reported following surgical intervention.

Timing of Spinal Surgery in Polytrauma: The Relevance of Injury Severity, Injury Level and Associated Injuries

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database analysis.

OBJECTIVE

Polytraumatized patients with spinal injuries require tailor-made treatment plans. Severity of both spinal and concomitant injuries determine timing of spinal surgery. Aim of this study was to evaluate the role of spinal injury localization, severity and concurrent injury patterns on timing of surgery and subsequent outcome.

METHODS

The TraumaRegister DGU® was utilized and patients, aged ≥16 years, with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥16 and diagnosed with relevant spinal injuries (abbreviated injury scale, AIS ≥ 3) were selected. Concurrent spinal and non-spinal injuries were analysed and the relation between injury severity, concurrent injury patterns and timing of spinal surgery was determined.

RESULTS

12.596 patients with a mean age of 50.8 years were included. 7.2% of patients had relevant multisegmental spinal injuries. Furthermore, 50% of patients with spine injuries AIS ≥3 had a more severe non-spinal injury to another body part. ICU and hospital stay were superior in patients treated within 48 hrs for lumbar and thoracic spinal injuries. In cervical injuries early intervention (<48 hrs) was associated with increased mortality rates (9.7 vs 6.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The current multicentre study demonstrates that polytrauma patients frequently sustain multiple spinal injuries, and those with an index spine injury may therefore benefit from standardized whole-spine imaging. Moreover, timing of surgical spinal surgery and outcome appear to depend on the severity of concomitant injuries and spinal injury localization. Future prospective studies are needed to identify trauma characteristics that are associated with improved outcome upon early or late spinal surgery.

Correlation between presence of traumatic disco-ligamentous injuries as an MRI finding with the results of management of thoracolumbar and lumbar injuries

Introduction: Radiographic study plays an important role in diagnosis of acute vertebral injuries and helps in proper management of those patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the modality of choice for evaluation of ligamentous and other soft tissue structures, disc, spinal cord and occult osseous injuries. Due to high cost, it is necessary to detect the best use of this technique in the evaluation of thoracolumbar spinal injuries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the importance of MRI as indicators for vertebral ligamentous injuries and intervertebral disc injuries or herniation in management of thoracolumbar and lumbar fractures. Methods: Retrospective study using radiological measurements. Seventy-two patients with thoracolumbar and lumbar fractures were included. Radiographic parameters detected were percentage of compression, kyphosis angle, vertebral translation and scoliosis angle. Computed tomography was used to detect the degree of spinal canal narrowing, MRI was used to evaluate the condition of posterior ligamentous complex and intervertebral disc injury or herniation. American Spinal Injury Association score was recorded. Results: There were 83% AO spine type A, 6% AO spine type B and 11% AO spine type C. Correlation between fracture type and neurological status with the posterior ligamentous complex injury was found to be significant: ( P = 0.0143 and P = 0.0344, respectively). Degree of vertebral body compression, kyphosis and scoliosis angles, vertebral body translation and spinal canal narrowing were found to be insignificant in correlation with posterior ligamentous complex injuries. Correlation of the above-mentioned parameters with disc injury or herniation was found to be insignificant except for kyphotic angle that was found to be significant in correlation with posttraumatic disc herniation ( P = 0.0219). Conclusion: MRI finding is of great value in management plan of thoracolumbar and lumbar fractures. Injury of posterior ligamentous complex is significantly correlated with fracture severity and the neurological function. But the intervertebral disc injury or herniation was not correlated to them except that the disc herniation was significantly correlated to kyphosis angle.

Indications for Nonsurgical Treatment of Thoracolumbar Spine Fractures: WFNS Spine Committee Recommendations

Thoracolumbar spine is the most injured spinal region in blunt trauma. Literature on the indications for nonoperative treatment of thoracolumbar fractures is conflicting. The purpose of this systematic review is to clarify the indications for nonsurgical treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. We conducted a systematic literature search between 2010 to 2020 on PubMed/MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central. Up-to-date literature on the indications for nonoperative treatment of thoracolumbar fractures was reviewed to reach an agreement in a consensus meeting of WFNS (World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies) Spine Committee. The statements were voted and reached a positive or negative consensus using the Delphi method. For all of the questions discussed, the literature search yielded 1,264 studies, from which 54 articles were selected for full-text review. Nine studies (4 trials, and 5 retrospective) evaluating 759 participants with thoracolumbar fractures who underwent nonoperative/surgery were included. Although, compression type and stable burst fractures can be managed conservatively, if there is major vertebral body damage, kyphotic angulation, neurological deficit, spinal canal compromise, surgery may be indicated. AO type B, C fractures are preferably treated surgically. Future research is necessary to tackle the relative paucity of evidence pertaining to patients with thoracolumbar fractures.

How Should Patients with a Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Score of 4 Be Treated?

The thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score (TLICS) system help surgeons decide whether patients should undergo initial operative treatment or nonoperative treatment. However, the best treatment for patients with TLICS 4 fracture remains unknown. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors for nonoperative treatment failure in patients with TLICS 4 fracture and establish treatment standards for TLICS 4 fractures. This study included 44 patients with TLICS 4 fracture who initially received nonoperative treatment. We divided these patients into two groups: the successful nonoperative treatment group included 18 patients, and the operative treatment group after nonoperative treatment failure included 26 patients. In multiple logistic regression analysis, spinal canal compromise (odd ratio = 1.316) and kyphotic angle (odd ratio = 1.416) were associated with nonoperative treatment failure in patients with TLICS 4 fracture. Other factors, including age, sex, BMI, initial VAS score, and loss of vertebral body height, were not significantly associated with nonoperative treatment failure in these patients. Spinal canal compromise and kyphotic angle were associated with nonoperative treatment failure in patients with TLICS 4 fracture. Therefore, we recommend the surgeon observe spinal canal compromise and kyphotic angle more carefully when deciding on the treatment of patients with TLICS 4 fracture.

Can Vertical Laminar Fracture Further Discriminate Fracture Severity Between Thoracolumbar AO Type A3 and A4 Fractures?

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether vertical laminar fracture (VLF) can distinguish between AO type A3 and A4 fractures.

METHODS

In a retrospective review of 111 consecutive acute thoracolumbar burst fractures, 5 reviewers independently analyzed computed tomography scans to classify fractures into A3 or A4 and to identify VLF. The following computed tomography parameters were measured: spinal canal stenosis >50%, anterior vertebral height ratio <50%, load sharing score >6, and local kyphosis >20°. We calculated the diagnostic performance of VLF in detecting A4 fracture. We compared the proportion of fractures with positive bony parameters, neurological deficit, dural tears, and surgical treatment between A3, A4 with VLF, and A4 without VLF.

RESULTS

VLF was present in 62/75 (83%) A4 fractures and 2/36 (5.5%) A3 fractures (P < 0.0001). VLF yielded a high specificity of 94% (95% confidence interval 81%-99%) and moderately high sensitivity of 83% (95% CI 72%-91%) in detecting A4 fractures. A significantly higher proportion of A4 fractures with VLF had neurological deficit (24% vs. 0, P = 0.05), spinal canal stenosis >50% (25% vs. 0, P = 0.04), and anterior vertebral height ratio <50% (24% vs. 0, P = 0.05) than A4 fractures with no VLF. Interrater and intrarater κ values for VLF and AO standard criterion were excellent (>0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

We found VLF to be highly specific, sensitive, and reliable in detecting A4 fractures. A higher proportion of A4 fractures with VLF had radiographic parameters and neurological deficit than A4 fractures with no VLF. VLF could be used as a severity modifier to further discriminate A3 and A4 fractures regarding severity and potentially guide treatment decision making.

A comparison of three different surgery approaches and methods for neurologically intact thoracolumbar fractures: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of conventional open pedicle screw fixation (COPSF), percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (PPSF), and paraspinal posterior open approach pedicle screw fixation (POPSF) for treating neurologically intact thoracolumbar fractures.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 108 patients who were posteriorly stabilized without graft fusion. Among them, 36 patients underwent COPSF, 38 patients underwent PPSF, and 34 patients underwent POPSF. The clinical outcomes, relative operation indexes, and radiological findings were assessed and compared among the 3 groups.

RESULTS

All of the patients were followed up for a mean time of 20 months. The PPSF group and POPSF group had shorter operation times, lower amounts of intraoperative blood loss, and shorter postoperative hospital stays than the COPSF group (P < 0.05). The radiation times and hospitalization costs were highest in the PPSF group (P < 0.05). Every group exhibited significant improvements in the Cobb angle (CA) and the vertebral body angle (VBA) correction (all P < 0.05). The COPSF group and the POPSF group had better improvements than the PPSF group at 3 days postoperation and the POPSF group had the best improvements in the last follow-up (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Both PPSF and POPSF achieved similar effects as COPSF while also resulting in lower incidences of injury. PPSF is more advantageous in the early rehabilitation time period, compared with COPSF, but POPSF is a better option when considering the long-term effects, the costs of treatment, and the radiation times.

Orthosis versus no orthosis for the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures: A systematic review

Management of patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures who do not have a neurologic injury has historically been controversial. Whilst management with an orthosis has gained popularity over surgical management, more recent evidence has suggested that even an orthosis may be unnecessary. A systematic review of the literature comparing orthosis with no orthosis in the management of thoracolumbar burst fractures in patients without neurological deficit was conducted. A risk of bias assessment was performed according to the Cochrane Collaboration Back Review Group. The quality of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE system. Two trials met the eligibility criteria. The functional outcomes, radiologic measures of kyphosis, pain scores, and quality of life scores were equivalent between the orthosis and the no orthosis groups. The level of evidence ranged from very low to moderate for the outcomes evaluated. The rate of complications and the rate of failure of treatment requiring surgery was low. Evidence from two small randomised controlled trials suggests that there are equivalent outcomes between treatment with and without an orthosis. Larger trials are needed to assess the treatment effect with greater confidence.

Orthosis in Thoracolumbar Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial (RCT).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate radiological and clinical outcomes of acute traumatic thoracolumbar fractures in skeletally mature patients treated with orthosis, versus no immobilization.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Orthosis is traditionally used in conservative treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. However, recent studies suggest no benefit, and a possible negative impact in recovery.

METHODS

Databases were searched from inception to June 2019. Studies were selected in two phases by two blinded reviewers; disagreements were solved by consensus. Inclusion criteria were: RCT; only patients with acute traumatic thoracolumbar fractures; primary conservative treatment; comparison between orthosis and no orthosis. Exclusion criteria were inclusion of nonacute fractures, patients with other significant known diseases and comparison of groups different than use of an orthosis. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and quality assessment. Fixed-effects models were used upon no heterogeneity, and random-effects model in the remaining cases. A previous plan for extraction of radiological (kyphosis progression; loss of anterior height) and clinical (pain; disability; length of stay) outcomes was applied. PRISMA guidelines were followed.

RESULTS

Eight articles/five studies were included (267 participants). None reported significant differences in pain, kyphosis progression, and loss of anterior height. One reported a better ODI with orthosis at 12 but not at 24 weeks. No other study reported differences in disability. All authors concluded an equivalence between treatments.Meta-analysis showed a significant increase of 3.47days (95% confidence interval 1.35-5.60) in mean admission time in orthosis group. No differences were found in kyphosis at 6 and 12 months; kyphosis progression between 0 to 6 and 0 to 12 months; loss of anterior height 0 to 6 months; VAS for pain at 6 months; VAS change 0 to 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Orthosis seems to add no benefit in conservative treatment of acute thoracolumbar fractures. This should be considered in guidelines and reviews of health care policies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Hidden blood loss during perioperative period and the influential factors after surgery of thoracolumbar burst fracture: A retrospective case series

Surgical therapy is vital for thoracolumbar burst fracture in restoring vertebral height, correcting kyphosis, decompressing nervous, and maintaining stability. Patients have unexpectedly lower hemoglobin levels postoperatively, which is remarkably inconsistent with the measured blood loss. However, hidden blood loss (HBL) is often neglected.To investigate HBL during perioperative period and determine its influential factors after surgery.A total of 68 patients who underwent surgery in our institution between January 2015 and January 2017 were included in the study. The demographic information, including the patients' age, gender, weight, height, duration of symptoms, surgery approach, time of operation, volume of drainage, classification of fracture, percentage of vertebral height loss and restoration, was collected. HBL was calculated according to the Gross formula. Influential factors were further analyzed using multivariate linear regression analysis.The mean HBL was 303.5 (range 18.4-803.5) mL, accounting for 67.5% of total blood loss. It indicated that the amount of HBL was much higher than we expected. Multiple and stepwise regression analysis revealed that blood loss, preoperative activated partial prothrombin time (APPT), percentage of anterior and medium vertebral height restoration were positively correlated with HBL. The association between HBL and the influential factors was analyzed based on the regression model equation: HBL = [1 + e [216.737 + 0.627*blood loss + 10.817*APTT + 207.549*anterior height restoration + 20.002*medium height restoration]]-1.HBL during perioperative period accounted for a substantial portion of the total blood loss and was much larger than what we thought. The blood loss, preoperative APPT, percentage of anterior and medium vertebral height restoration were positively correlated with HBL. Therefore, more attention needs to be paid to HBL to ensure patients' safety.

Biomechanical effects of USS fixation with different screw insertion depths on the vertebrae stiffness and screw stress for the treatment of the L1 fracture

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the biomechanical effects of internal fixation with different screw insertion depths on vertebrae stiffness and screw stress for L1 fracture.

METHODS

The established L1 fracture was fixed with 10 different depths of screw insertion: 10-100% screw-path length (SPL). Loading on the T12 endplate was simulated.

RESULTS

Screws inserted to 60-100% depths has a higher axial displacement of screw against injured vertebrae and maximum stress of screws compared to those of screws inserted to 30-50% depths and 10-20% (P< 0.05). No significant difference was noted among 60-100% SPL groups. Under single loading condition, the incidence rate of maximum stress of each screw ranged from 16.7-50.0%. Chi-square test showed superior screw has a higher incidence rate of maximum stress than inferior screw (P< 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Screws inserted to 60% depth or more can achieve effective strength to withstand the postoperative height correction loss of the L1 vertebrae fracture. However, continuous prolonged depth of screw insertion did not significantly increase the effective strength of the screw against injured vertebrae and maximum equivalent stress of screws. The incidence rate of the maximum stress of each screw in correlated with position of screw insertion but not associated with the screw insertion depth.

Outcomes in Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures With a Thoracolumbar Injury Classification Score (TLICS) of 4 Treated With Surgery Versus Initial Conservative Management

STUDY DESIGN

This is a single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether surgery or nonoperative treatment has better clinical outcomes in neurologically intact patients with an intermediate severity thoracolumbar burst fracture.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Optimal management, whether initial operative or nonoperative treatment, for thoracolumbar injury classification score (TLICS) 4 burst fractures remains controversial. Better insight into the treatment which affords patients a better clinical outcome could significantly affect patient care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included consecutive cases of TLICS 4 burst fracture patients from 2007 to 2013 and minimum 6-month follow-up. Potential confounders examined included age, sex, injury severity score, initial kyphotic angle, injured facets, and interspinous widening. Outcomes were determined by standardized questionnaires [Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), 12-item Short Form Physical Component Score (SF-12 PCS), and back pain Visual Analog Scale (VAS)] and analyzed using regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 230 patients with burst fractures were identified, of which 67/230 (29%) were TLICS 4 and 47/67 (70%) had completed follow-up. No difference on univariate analysis was found between nonsurgical and surgical groups in mean ODI scores (P=0.27, t test), nor mean time to return to work (P=0.10, t test).Regarding outcomes, linear regression analysis revealed no association between having surgery and ODI (P=0.29), SF-12 PCS (P=0.59), or VAS (P=0.33). Furthermore, no difference was found between groups for employed patients working versus not working (P=0.09, the Fisher test), nor in mean time to return to work (P=0.30, Cox regression).

CONCLUSIONS

This is one of the largest studies examining TLICS 4 burst fracture patients, adjusting for both clinical and radiologic confounders and reporting patient outcomes with minimum 6-month follow-up. No differences were found in outcomes between patients treated either surgically or nonsurgically. Studies focusing on early postoperative differences or cost-effectiveness might help in decision making.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Influence of Gender on Health-Related Quality of Life and Disability at 1 Year After Surgery for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

OBJECTIVE

Thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBF) are the most frequent type of spinal fractures. Approximately half of the patients are neurologically intact and their treatment is still debatable. Gender could influence outcome after surgical procedures, but this is still unclear in patients sustaining a spinal fracture. The aim of this study was to investigate how gender influences health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and disability in patients operated on for TLBF.

METHODS

We identified 44 neurologically intact patients from a consecutive series of patients treated surgically for a single-level traumatic burst fracture (AOSpine Subaxial Classification System A3) in the thoracolumbar transition area (Th12-L2). At 1 year after surgery, they were evaluated using the SF-36v2 questionnaire to assess HRQOL and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire to evaluate disability.

RESULTS

Male patients scored higher in each item of the SF-36v2, with significant differences (P < .05) for Physical Function (PF), Bodily Pain (BP), and Social Function (SF). Male patients also had lower disability scores. Overall ODI score had a strong correlation with Physical Function, Role-Physical, Bodily Pain, Vitality, Mental Health, and overall Physical Component Summary (PCS) of the SF-36 in women, but only with Physical Function, Role-Physical, Role-Emotional, and PCS in men.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, male patients reported better outcomes at 1 year after surgery for TLBF than women. Disability strongly correlated with the overall HRQOL, physical and mental health in women, but not in men. We found gender-related differences favoring men after surgical interventions for spinal fractures.

Malunion of post-traumatic thoracolumbar fractures

Thoracolumbar malunion is the result of loss of correction, insufficient correction or even no correction (both in the frontal and sagittal planes) of a thoracolumbar fracture. The main causes are incorrect assessment of the fracture's complexity (burst fracture), its potential progression to kyphosis and associated disc or ligament damage. It can also be the result of a poorly conducted initial treatment. The types of malunion have changed over the years because of the introduction of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. The malunion can be well tolerated if there is only a moderate deformity. However, the functional and pain-related limitations can be severe with large deformities. Functional limitation is mainly related to sagittal imbalance, but also to sequelae associated with the injury in various ways (non-union, disc degeneration, spinal cord compression, syringomyelia, etc.). The deformity and its consequences are evaluated globally using full-body standing radiographs (EOS), CT scan and MRI. Comparison of MRI images taken in a lying position to weight bearing views or even dynamic ones is an additional means to evaluate whether the lesions are reducible. Differences in spine morphology and compensatory mechanisms to combat the sagittal imbalance induced by the deformity must also be analyzed. These provide more complete information about the consequences of the malunion and help to establish the best corrective strategy. These compensatory mechanisms consist of accentuation of lumbar lordosis along with reduction of thoracic kyphosis. As a last resort, the pelvis and femur contribute to this compensation when there is a large deformity or a stiff spine due to preexisting osteoarthritis. Treatment strategies are fairly well standardized. When the deformity is reducible, a two-stage surgery is indicated. When the deformity is not reducible, posterior transpedicular closed wedge osteotomy is the gold standard. Nevertheless, the best way to treat thoracolumbar malunion is to prevent it.

Transpedicular Corpectomy and Cage Placement in the Treatment of Traumatic Lumbar Burst Fractures

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review.

OBJECTIVE

To review the feasibility of a posterior-only approach for instrumented reconstruction in lumbar burst fractures.

BACKGROUND

Burst fractures of the lumbar spine have been treated through a variety of techniques, including anterior, posterior, or combined approaches. Here we review series of patients undergoing posterior-only transpedicular corpectomy with instrumented fusion for traumatic lumbar burst fracture.

METHODS

All patients treated at the Los Angeles County+University of Southern California (LAC+USC) Medical Center who had sustained traumatic lumbar burst fractures from February 2005 to February 2014 were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 178 traumatic lumbar burst fractures were identified of which 89 required operative intervention. Of those 89 operations, 7 patients underwent posterior-only approach for transpedicular corpectomy. Levels operated on were at L1 (4 patients), L2 (1 patient), and L4 (2 patients). The mean age was 35 years of age (range, 21-56 y), and mechanism of injury was either motor vehicle accident (5 patients) or fall (2 patients). Initial neurological examination was American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) B in 3 patients, ASIA D in 3 patients, and 1 patient was neurologically intact. Mean thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score on presentation was 6.4 (range, 5-8), whereas the mean load sharing classification score was 7.4 (range, 7-9). Of patients who were not immediately lost to follow-up on hospital discharge, mean clinical follow-up was 45.3 months (range, 18.8-68.6 mo), whereas mean radiographic follow-up was 28.8 months (range, 1.3-63.6 mo). At the last known radiographic follow-up, no patient had gross hardware fracture, pseudoarthrosis, or adjacent segment disease. One patient with the longest radiographic follow-up of 63.6 months was noted to have some minimal subsidence of his cage with no other change in his other hardware.

CONCLUSION

A posterior-only approach for transpedicular corpectomy and instrumented fusion is a viable treatment option for lumbar burst fracture which allows for reconstruction of the anterior column while avoiding many of the risks and complications associated with an anterior or combined approach.

Does Operative or Nonoperative Treatment Achieve Better Results in A3 and A4 Spinal Fractures Without Neurological Deficit?: Systematic Literature Review With Meta-Analysis

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic literature review with meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE

Thoracolumbar (TL) fractures can be treated conservatively or surgically. Especially, the treatment strategy for incomplete and complete TL burst fractures (A3 and A4, AOSpine classification) in neurologically intact patients remains controversial. The aim of this work was to collate the clinical evidence on the respective treatment modalities.

METHODS

Searches were performed in PubMed and the Web of Science. Clinical and radiological outcome data were collected. For studies comparing operative with nonoperative treatment, the standardized mean differences (SMD) for disability and pain were calculated and methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed.

RESULTS

From 1929 initial matches, 12 were eligible. Four of these compared surgical with conservative treatment. A comparative analysis of radiological results was not possible due to a lack of uniform reporting. Differences in clinical outcomes at follow-up were small, both between studies and between treatment groups. The SMD was 0.00 (95% CI -0.072, 0.72) for disability and -0.05 (95% CI -0.91, 0.81) for pain. Methodological quality was high in most studies and no evidence of publication bias was revealed.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find differences in disability or pain outcomes between operative and nonoperative treatment of A3 and A4 TL fractures in neurologically intact patients. Notwithstanding, the available scores have been developed and validated for degenerative diseases; thus, their suitability in trauma may be questionable. Specific and uniform outcome parameters need to be defined and enforced for the evaluation of TL trauma.

Treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures: extended follow-up of a randomized clinical trial comparing orthosis versus no orthosis

OBJECTIVE A multicenter, prospective, randomized equivalence trial comparing a thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) to no orthosis (NO) in the treatment of acute AO Type A3 thoracolumbar burst fractures was recently conducted and demonstrated that the two treatments following an otherwise similar management protocol are equivalent at 3 months postinjury. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether there was a difference in long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes between the patients treated with and those treated without a TLSO. Here, the authors present the 5- to 10-year outcomes (mean follow-up 7.9 ± 1.1 years) of the patients at a single site from the original multicenter trial. METHODS Between July 2002 and January 2009, a total of 96 subjects were enrolled in the primary trial and randomized to two groups: TLSO or NO. Subjects were enrolled if they had an AO Type A3 burst fracture between T-10 and L-3 within the previous 72 hours, kyphotic deformity < 35°, no neurological deficit, and an age of 16-60 years old. The present study represents a subset of those patients: 16 in the TLSO group and 20 in the NO group. The primary outcome measure was the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) score at the last 5- to 10-year follow-up. Secondary outcome measures included kyphosis, satisfaction, the Numeric Rating Scale for back pain, and the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) Mental and Physical Component Summary (MCS and PCS) scores. In the original study, outcome measures were administered at admission and 2 and 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months, and 1 and 2 years after injury; in the present extended follow-up study, the outcome measures were administered 5-10 years postinjury. Treatment comparison between patients in the TLSO group and those in the NO group was performed at the latest available follow-up, and the time-weighted average treatment effect was determined using a mixed-effects model of longitudinal regression for repeated measures averaged over all time periods. Missing data were assumed to be missing at random and were replaced with a set of plausible values derived using a multiple imputation procedure. RESULTS The RMDQ score at 5-10 years postinjury was 3.6 ± 0.9 (mean ± SE) for the TLSO group and 4.8 ± 1.5 for the NO group (p = 0.486, 95% CI -2.3 to 4.8). Average kyphosis was 18.3° ± 2.2° for the TLSO group and 18.6° ± 3.8° for the NO group (p = 0.934, 95% CI -7.8 to 8.5). No differences were found between the NO and TLSO groups with time-weighted average treatment effects for RMDQ 1.9 (95% CI -1.5 to 5.2), for PCS -2.5 (95% CI -7.9 to 3.0), for MCS -1.2 (95% CI -6.7 to 4.2) and for average pain 0.9 (95% CI -0.5 to 2.2). CONCLUSIONS Compared with patients treated with a TLSO, patients treated using early mobilization without orthosis maintain similar pain relief and improvement in function for 5-10 years.

Impact of Sagittal Balance on Clinical Outcomes in Surgically Treated T12 and L1 Burst Fractures: Analysis of Long-Term Outcomes after Posterior-Only and Combined Posteroanterior Treatment

Objective. Long-term radiological and clinical outcome retrospective study of surgical treatment for T12 and L1 burst fractures in perspective of sagittal balance measures. Methods. Patients with age of 16–60 years, complete radiographs, early surgical treatment surgery, and follow-up (F/U) > 18 months were included and strict exclusion criteria applied. Regional and thoracolumbar kyphosis angles (RKA and TLA) were measured preoperatively and at final F/U, as were parameters of the spinopelvic sagittal alignment. Clinical outcomes were assessed using validated measures. Results. 36 patients with age mean age of 39 years and F/U of 69 months were included. 61% of patients were treated with bisegmental posterior instrumentation (POST-I) and 39% with combined posteroanterior instrumented fusion (PA-F). At F/U, several indicators for clinical outcomes showed a significant correlation with radiographic measures in the overall cohort with inferior clinical outcomes corresponding with increasing residual deformity and sagittal malalignment. Statistical analysis failed to reach level of significance for the differences between POST-I and PA-F group at final F/U. Only a strong trend towards better restoration of the thoracolumbar alignment was observed for the PA-F group in terms of the RKA and TLA. Conclusions. Results in a surgically treated cohort of T12 and L1 burst fracture patients indicate that superior clinical outcomes depend on restoration of sagittal alignment.

Comparison of Anterior Versus Posterior Approach in the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fractures: A Systematic Review

Despite extensive research on thoracolumbar fractures, controversy still exists about which approach is the most appropriate. Lack of evidence-based practice may result in patients being treated inappropriately. The objective of study was to perform a systematic review of the effectiveness of the anterior and posterior approaches in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. We conducted searches of PubMed and the Cochrane Library, searching for relevant trials up to August 2013 that compared anterior and posterior for the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures. The key words "anterior," "posterior," "thoracolumbar fracture," "CCT," and "RCT" were used. We assessed all included literature by using the Cochrane handbook (version 5.1). The results were expressed as the mean difference for continuous outcomes and risk difference for dichotomous outcomes, with a 95% confidence interval, using RevMan version 5.2. There were 3 randomized controlled trials and 11 clinical controlled trials included. The meta-analysis showed no significant difference between groups regarding Cobb angle, the Frankel scale, ASIA/JOA motor score, complications, and number of patients returning to work. Compared with the anterior approach, the posterior approach demonstrated superior canal decompression. In the burst fracture subgroup, operative times were significantly shorter and perioperative blood loss was less in the posterior approach group. The posterior approach is more effective for canal decompression, operative times, and perioperative blood loss. However, because of the lack of randomized controlled trials, and because of large sample size studies, heterogeneity was significant between reports. The optimal treatment for thoracolumbar fractures requires further study.

Surgical treatment of Denis type B thoracolumbar burst fracture with neurological deficiency by paraspinal approach

We aimed to describe the surgical technique and clinical outcomes of paraspinal-approach reduction and fixation (PARF) in a group of patients with Denis type B thoracolumbar burst fracture (TLBF) with neurological deficiencies. A total of 62 patients with Denis B TLBF with neurological deficiencies were included in this study between January 2009 and December 2011. Clinical evaluations including the Frankel scale, pain visual analog scale (VAS) and radiological assessment (CT scans for fragment reduction and X-ray for the Cobb angle, adjacent superior and inferior intervertebral disc height, and vertebral canal diameter) were performed preoperatively and at 3 days, 6 months, and 1 and 2 years postoperatively. All patients underwent successful PARF, and were followed-up for at least 2 years. Average surgical time, blood loss and incision length were recorded. The sagittal vertebral canal diameter was significantly enlarged. The canal stenosis index was also improved. Kyphosis was corrected and remained at 8.6±1.4^o (P>0.05) 1 year postoperatively. Adjacent disc heights remained constant. Average Frankel grades were significantly improved at the end of follow-up. All 62 patients were neurologically assessed. Pain scores decreased at 6 months postoperatively, compared to before surgery (P<0.05). PARF provided excellent reduction for traumatic segmental kyphosis, and resulted in significant spinal canal clearance, which restored and maintained the vertebral body height of patients with Denis B TLBF with neurological deficits.

Management of burst fractures in the thoracolumbar spine

The most common fractures in the spine take place in the thoracolumbar region. Currently there is no consensus regarding optimum treatment.

OBJECTIVE

Analyze the current medical literature available regarding treatment of compression fractures of the thoracolumbar spine.

METHODS

Research of current literature in medical databases.

RESULTS

Regarding current available literature, we found no consensus in the treatment of compression fractures in the thoracolumbar spine.

CONCLUSIONS

Burst fractures of the thoracolumbar junction is a very common condition, treatment of each patient must be individualized. Conservative treatment is recommended for stable fractures without neurological compromise and less than 35° of kyphosis.

Creating reproducible thoracolumbar burst fractures in human specimens: an in vitro experiment

OBJECT

The treatment of traumatic burst fractures unaccompanied by neurological impairment remains controversial and ranges from conservative management to 360° fusion. Because of the heterogeneity of fracture types, classification systems, and treatment options, comparative biomechanical studies might help to improve our knowledge. The aim of the current study was to create a standardized fracture model to investigate burst fractures in a multisegmental setting.

METHODS

A total of 28 thoracolumbar fresh-frozen human cadaveric spines were used. The spines were dissected into segments (T11–L3). The T-11 and L-3 vertebral bodies were embedded in Technovit 3040 (cold-curing resin for surface testing and impressions). To simulate high energy, a metallic drop tower was designed. Stress risers were used to ensure comparable fractures. CT scans were acquired before and after fracture. All fractures were classified using the AO/OTA classification.

RESULTS

The preparation and embedding of the spine segments worked well. No repositioning or second embedding of the specimen, even after fracture, was required. It was possible to create single burst fractures at the L-1 level in all 28 spine segments. Among the 28 fractures there were 16 incomplete burst fractures (Type A3.1), 8 burst-split fractures (Type A3.2), and 4 complete burst fractures (Type A3.3). The differences before and after fracture for stiffness and for anterior, posterior, and central heights were all significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The ability to create reproducible burst fractures of a single vertebral body in a thoracolumbar spine segment may serve as a basis for future biomechanical studies that will provide better understanding of mechanical properties or fixation techniques.

THORACOLUMBAR BURST FRACTURES, SHORT X LONG FIXATION: A META-ANALYSIS

ABSTRACT The number of fixed segments in the surgical treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures remains controversial. This study aims to compare the results of short and long fixation in thoracolumbar burst fractures through a meta-analysis of studies published recently. MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were used. Randomized controlled trials and non-randomized comparative studies (prospective and retrospective) were selected. Data were analyzed with the software Review Manager. There was no statistically significant difference in the Cobb angle of preoperative kyphosis. Long fixation showed lower average measurements postoperatively (MD = 1.41; CI = 0.73-2.08; p<0.0001) and in the last follow-up (MD = 3.98; CI = 3.22-4.75; p<0.00001). The short fixation showed the highest failure rates (RD = 4.03; CI = 1.33-12.16; p=0.01) and increased loss of height of the vertebral body (MD = 1.24; CI = 0.49-1.98; p=0.001), with shorter operative time (MD = -24.54; CI = -30.16 - -18.91; p<0.00001). There was no significant difference in blood loss and clinical outcomes. The high rates of kyphosis correction loss with short fixation and the lower correction rate in the immediate postoperative period were validated. There was no significant difference in the blood loss rates because arthrodesis was performed in a short segment in the analyzed studies. The short fixation was performed in a shorter operative time, as expected. No study has shown superior clinical outcomes. The short fixation had worse rates of kyphosis correction in the immediate postoperative period, and increased loss of correction in long-term follow-up, making the long fixation an effective option in the management of this type of fracture.

Nonoperative Management in Neurologically Intact Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures: Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

The identification of factors that lead to the failure of nonoperative management in neurologically intact thoracolumbar burst fractures.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBF) can be controversial, particularly in the neurologically intact. Surgery for intact burst fractures has been advocated for early mobilization and a shorter hospital stay. These goals, however, have not always been achieved, rejuvenating an interest in nonoperative treatment.

METHODS

Sixty-eight neurologically intact patients with burst fractures of the thoracolumbar junction (T11-L2), and a thoracolumbar injury classification and severity score (TLICS) of 2, were treated at our institution. Based on CT scans, patients were scored based on the load-sharing classification (LSC) scale. Initial treatment consisted of bracing in clamshell thoracolumbar orthosis and gradual mobilization.

RESULTS

Owing to pain limiting mobilization, 18 patients failed nonoperative management and required instrumentation. Those who failed nonsurgical management were significantly more kyphotic (8° ± 10) and stenotic (52% ± 14%) than those successfully treated nonoperatively (3° ± 7 and 63 ± 12%, respectively). The LSC score of those undergoing surgery (6.9 ± 1.1) was also greater than those successfully treated nonoperatively (5.8 ± 1.3, P = 0.006). Length of hospitalization was longer, and hospital charges higher in those requiring surgery compared to the nonoperative group. At follow-up there was no difference between groups in the visual analog score for pain (VAS) or the Oswestry disability index.

CONCLUSION

Owing to pain limiting mobilization, a quarter of neurologically intact patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures and a TLICS score of 2 failed nonsurgical management. The greater the kyphosis, stenosis, and fragmentation of the fracture, the more likely patients required surgery. In addition to the TLICS classification, other radiographic and clinical parameters should be included in selecting appropriate treatment strategy. The cost savings with nonoperative treatment of intact burst fractures, when appropriate, are significant.

Decision-Making Process in Patients with Thoracolumbar and Lumbar Burst Fractures with Thoracolumbar Injury Severity and Classification Score Less than Four

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

PURPOSE

To develop a strategy to determine a sound method for decision-making based on postoperative clinical outcome satisfaction.

OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE

The ideal management of thoracolumbar and lumbar burst fractures (TLBF) without neurological compromise remains controversial.

METHODS

This was a prospective study. Patients with thoracolumbar injury severity and classification score (TLICS) <4 were treated nonoperatively, with bed rest and bracing until the pain decreased sufficiently to allow mobilization. Surgery was undertaken in patients with intractable pain despite an appropriate nonoperative treatment (surgery group). The Oswestry disability index (ODI) measure was observed at baseline and at the last follow-up. Clinically success was defined at least a 30% improvement from the baseline ODI scores in both the conservative and surgery groups. All case records were assessed for gender, age, residual canal and angulations at the site of the fracture in order to determine which patients benefited from surgery or conservative treatment and which did not.

RESULTS

In all 113 patients with T11-L5, TLBFs were treated. The patients' mean age was 49.2 years. Patients successfully completed either nonoperative (n=99) or surgical (n=14) treatment based on ODI. Clinical examinations revealed that all of the patients had intact neurology. The mean follow-up period was 29.5 months. There was a significant difference between the two groups based on age and residual canal. The mean ODI score significantly improved for both groups (p <0.01). According to the findings, a decision matrix was proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings confirm that TLICS <4, age, and residual canal can be used to guide the treatment of TLBF in conservative decision-making.

Percutaneous extrapedicular vertebroplasty with expandable intravertebral implant in compression vertebral body fracture in pediatric patient-technical note

PURPOSE

The aim of the article is to present the new extrapedicular percutaneous technique for posttraumatic vertebral column fracture.

METHODS

A 15-year-old boy needed a surgical Th8 posttraumatic vertebral body (VB) compressive fracture reduction due to insufficient conservative treatment and consistent severe clinical symptoms. After 6 months of external Jevett long-roll brace stabilization, progressive sagittal balance disturbance of thoracic kyphosis was measured and persistent clinical symptoms were observed. It was decided to present a surgical technique method allowing to attempt to reduce VB fracture, rebalance the vertebral column (VC) without any motion limitation, and decrease clinical symptoms. The procedure was performed percutaneously from extrapedicular approach with intravertebral implant (Spine Jack®-Vexim™) and cement (Interface®-Vexim™) under fluoroscopic imaging (Ziehm™ 8000®).

RESULTS

The whole procedure was uneventful. Now, the child is free from clinical symptoms and the partial reduction of VB fracture was achieved. The patient has been followed for 3 months. In the control CT scans, the VB fracture reduction is stable and no progression of thoracic kyphosis angle is observed. Furthermore since the surgical procedure, the patient is clinical symptom free.

CONCLUSION

The extrapedicular percutaneus technique of VB fracture reduction with intravertebral fixation allowed to partially reduce the VB compressive fracture, rebalance the VC without any motion limitation, avoid external long-roll brace, and eliminate clinical symptoms. The procedure is minimally invasive, fast, and clinically effective. However, the technique should be restricted only to carefully selected clinical cases.

The effects of orthosis on thoracolumbar fracture healing: A review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Various methods have been used as a conservative treatment of stable thoracolumbar fracture. Presently, it is controversial, whether the use of spinal orthoses reduces pain and deformity associated with vertebral fracture or not. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of orthoses on vertebral fractures healing in thoracolumbar area.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search was carried out on Medline, ISI web of knowledge, Google Scholar and Embasco. The keywords used included thoracolumbar fracture; brace, orthosis, and conservative treatment.

RESULTS

Twenty-one papers were selected for final analysis. The quality of the most of the papers was poor, as most of them were retrospective studies with various follow-up periods.

DISCUSSION

Based on the results of these studies, it can be concluded that subjects with a fracture of thoracolumbar achieved a high ability to return to their jobs. The use of orthosis did not influence the kyphosis angulation in subjects with stable fracture in thoracolumbar spine. The effects of orthoses would be mostly immobilization, protection and remaining.

Two-Nation Comparison of Classification and Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fractures: An Internet-Based Multicenter Study Among Spine Surgeons

STUDY DESIGN

Web-based multicenter study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess and compare the management strategy for traumatic thoracolumbar fractures between German and Dutch spine surgeons.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

To date, there is no evidence-based treatment algorithm for thoracolumbar spine fractures, thereby an international controversy concerning optimal treatment exists.

METHODS

In this web-based multicenter study (www.spine.hostei.com), computed tomography scans of traumatic thoracolumbar fractures (T12-L2) were evaluated by German and Dutch spine surgeons. Supplementary case-specific information such as age, sex, height, weight, neurological status, and injury mechanism were provided.By using a questionnaire, fractures were classified according to the AO-Magerl Classification, followed by 6 questions concerning the treatment algorithm. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 21, 76, Chicago, IL). The interobserver agreement was determined by using Cohen κ. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Twelve surgeons (6 per country) evaluated each 91 cases. The fractures were classified as AO Type A in 82% (898 votes), Type B in 14% (150 votes), and Type C in 4% (44 votes). No significant difference concerning the AO Classification between German and Dutch spine surgeons was found. Overall German spine surgeons had a lower threshold concerning the indication for surgical treatment (Ger 87% vs. NL 30%; P < 0.05). There was a consensus about operative stabilization of AO Type B and C injuries and injuries with neurologic deficit, whereas a discrepancy in the therapeutic algorithm for AO Type A fractures was observed. This difference was most pronounced regarding the indication for posterior (Ger 96.6%; NL 41.2%; P < 0.05) and circumferential stabilization (Ger 53.4%; NL 0%; P < 0.05) for burst fractures.

CONCLUSION

There is a consensus to stabilize AO Type B and C fractures, whereas country-specific differences in the treatment of Type A fractures, especially in case of burst fractures, occur. Prospective, controlled multicenter outcome studies may provide more evidence in optimal treatment for thoracolumbar fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

The long-term efficacy of pedicular screw fixation at patients suffering from thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficit

OBJECTIVES

Treatment of choice at stable burst fracture is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study is assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) regarding short form-36 (SF-36) and its correlation with kyphosis in patients affected by thoracolumbar burst fracture without neurological deficit undergoing posterior short segment pedicular screw fixation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficits, meeting our criteria were enrolled in this study. The patients underwent short segment pedicular screw fixation. After 2 years of follow-up, the outcome assessment was performed with evaluating HRQOL; SF-36. The mean ± standard deviation was measured at each eight category of SF-36 and compared with normative values of Iran. The correlation of Cobb angle and body pain was analyzed by linear regression.

RESULTS

The study detected reduced quality of life (QOL), with total mean of 49.7 ± 14 and physical function grade of 61.2 ± 22 which was significantly lower than Iran normative reported as 85.9 ± 19. Fifty percent still suffered from moderate to severe pain and Cobb angle had no statistically significant correlation with body pain.

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that surgical treatment could not improve pain related disability of patients with stable thoracolumbar burst fracture at long term follow up.

Clinical and radiological outcomes of conservative treatment after stable post-traumatic thoracolumbar fractures in elderly: Is it really best option for all elderly patients?

Objective

The purpose of this study was to research the effectiveness of conservative treatment of stable post-traumatic thoracolumbar vertebral fractures in elderly patients.

Methods

The study included 21 elderly patients (13 females, 8 males) with post-traumatic thoracolumbar compression fracture who were treated with a brace. Fractures without any trauma history, pathological fractures, patients younger than 60 years old and patients with no malignancy history were excluded from study. Neurological examination and posterior ligamentous complex (PLC) were intact in all patients. Radiological parameters and pain scores were recorded in regular follow-up.

Results

The mean age and follow-up were 71.3 years (range, 60–84 years) and 20.1 months (range, 12–26 months) respectively. During follow-up, 4 patients had significant height loss resulting in kyphotic deformity and intractable pain. There was a significant increase in the local kyphosis angle (p = 0.001) and height loss percentage (p = 0.017). At the final follow-up, the mean Denis Score of pain was 1.62 ± 0.74.

Conclusion

Although there is wide acceptance of conservative treatment of post-traumatic stable thoracolumbar fracture with intact PCL according to the Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Score (TLICS), elderly female patients with a post-traumatic compression fracture in the junctional region are at great risk of conservative treatment failure. These patients should be well-informed about the possible complications and poor results of conservative treatment, and surgical treatment should be considered in selective cases with the informed consent of the patients.

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Brace isn't always best in spine fractures elderly.

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Conservative treatment has failure risk for female patients and junction fractures.

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Elderly patients with risk factors should be informed about the possible complications and poor results of conservative treatment.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion treated with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

The optimal treatment for thoracolumbar fractures (TLF) without neurological deficit remains controversial. Majority of the systematic reviews and meta-analyses have evaluated open operative approaches but have yet to compare the outcomes of minimally invasive percutaneous pedicle fixation (MIPPF) versus non-operative treatment. A retrospective cohort study was performed to compare clinical and radiological outcomes between MIPPF and conservative groups for TLF AO Type A1 to Type B2 during a 2-year follow-up period. Pre-operative plain and CT films were evaluated and decision made for short segment (non-fusion) MIPPF. Patients who refused operation were treated conservatively with three months of body cast, brace, or corset. MIPPF group showed earlier Visual Analog Score(VAS) improvement at six months post-injury (0 vs 6.0- p<0.001), as well as better functional and radiological outcomes (p<0.050) at final follow-up. Progressions of regional kyphosis (RK) were noted in both groups but there was no significant difference within and between them(p>0.050). MIPPF as a method of internal bracing can be pursued in the treatment of TLF, with larger future cohorts and RCTs being called for to support and explore new findings.

Percutaneous Dorsal Instrumentation of Vertebral Burst Fractures: Value of Additional Percutaneous Intravertebral Reposition-Cadaver Study

Purpose. The treatment of vertebral burst fractures is still controversial. The aim of the study is to evaluate the purpose of additional percutaneous intravertebral reduction when combined with dorsal instrumentation. Methods. In this biomechanical cadaver study twenty-eight spine segments (T11-L3) were used (male donors, mean age 64.9 ± 6.5 years). Burst fractures of L1 were generated using a standardised protocol. After fracture all spines were allocated to four similar groups and randomised according to surgical techniques (posterior instrumentation; posterior instrumentation + intravertebral reduction device + cement augmentation; posterior instrumentation + intravertebral reduction device without cement; and intravertebral reduction device + cement augmentation). After treatment, 100000 cycles (100–600 N, 3 Hz) were applied using a servohydraulic loading frame. Results. Overall anatomical restoration was better in all groups where the intravertebral reduction device was used (p < 0.05). In particular, it was possible to restore central endplates (p > 0.05). All techniques decreased narrowing of the spinal canal. After loading, clearance could be maintained in all groups fitted with the intravertebral reduction device. Narrowing increased in the group treated with dorsal instrumentation. Conclusions. For height and anatomical restoration, the combination of an intravertebral reduction device with dorsal instrumentation showed significantly better results than sole dorsal instrumentation.

Burst fracture of the thoracolumbar spine: correlation between kyphosis and clinical result of the treatment

<sec><title>OBJECTIVE:</title><p> To evaluate the correlation between kyphosis due to burst fractures of thoracic and lumbar spine and clinical outcome in patients undergoing conservative or surgical treatment.</p></sec><sec><title>METHODS:</title><p> A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted with 29 patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures treated by the Spine Group in a trauma reference hospital between the years 2002 and 2011. Patients were followed-up as outpatients for a minimum of 24 months. All cases were clinically evaluated by Oswestry and SF-36 quality of life questionnaires and the visual analogue scale (VAS) of pain. They were also evaluated by X-ray examinations and CT scans of the lumbosacral spine at the time of hospitalization and subsequently as outpatients by Cobb method for measuring the degree of kyphosis.</p></sec><sec><title>RESULTS:</title><p> There was no statistically significant correlation between the degree of initial kyphosis and clinical outcome measured by VAS and by most of the SF-36 domains in both patients treated conservatively and the surgically treated. The Oswestry questionnaire showed benefits for patients who received conservative treatment (p=0.047) compared to those surgically treated (p=0.335). The analysis of difference between initial and final kyphosis and final kyphosis alone in relation to clinical outcome showed no statistical correlation in any of the scores used.</p></sec><sec><title>CONCLUSION:</title><p> The clinical outcome of treatment of the thoracic and lumbar burst fractures was not influenced by a greater or lesser degree of initial or residual kyphosis, regardless of the type of treatment.</p></sec>

Posterior indirect reduction and pedicle screw fixation without laminectomy for Denis type B thoracolumbar burst fractures with incomplete neurologic deficit

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of posterior indirect reduction and pedicle screw fixation without laminectomy for the treatment of Denis type B thoracolumbar burst fractures with incomplete neurologic deficit.

Methods

From March 2008 to May 2012, 36 consecutive patients of Denis type B thoracolumbar burst with incomplete neurologic deficit were enrolled. All of the patients accepted the treatments of posterior indirect reduction and pedicle screw fixation without laminectomy. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

Operations were performed in a relatively short time without massive hemorrhage. Their neurologic functions were improved by at least one Frankel grade. The average score of American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) motor increased from 25.4 ± 10.8 to 42.1 ± 10.5, and the recovery rate of the ASIA score was also increased. The pain level was relieved for all the patients. The local kyphosis angle was reduced from 25.9° ± 3.4° to 6.9° ± 2.2° (P <0.05) and remained 7.9° ± 2.0° (P > 0.05) at the latest follow-up. After the operation, the mean vertebral canal diameter increased from 5.5 ± 1.3 to 11.1 ± 2.2 mm (P < 0.05) and the mean canal stenosis index increased from 32.9 ± 7.8 to 84.8 ± 7.3 % (P < 0.05). There were no serious complications and fixation failures during follow-up.

Conclusion

Denis type B thoracolumbar burst fractures with incomplete neurologic deficit can be effectively treated by posterior indirect reduction and pedicle screw fixation without laminectomy.

Incidence, impact, and risk factors of adverse events in thoracic and lumbar spine fractures: an ambispective cohort analysis of 390 patients

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Adverse events (AEs) in thoracic and lumbar spine fractures are common, but little is known about the type of AEs that are specific to this population. Furthermore, very little is known about the incidence and clinical impact of these AEs on patients in the presence of traumatic spinal cord injury and whether they are treated operatively or nonoperatively.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine primarily the incidence of AEs in patients with thoracic or lumbar spine fractures treated both operatively and nonoperatively and their impact on length of stay (LOS) and secondarily the difference in the incidence of AEs in both neurologically intact and compromised patients.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

This is an ambispective cohort study at a quaternary referral center.

PATIENT SAMPLE

Patients admitted at our institution with thoracic or lumbar fractures from January 2009 to December 2013 were identified. Patients with full Spine Adverse Events Severity System (SAVES) data were included.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Number and type of AEs collected from SAVES were assessed. Impact of AE on acute LOS was also determined.

METHODS

Data on intraoperative, preoperative, and postoperative AEs were prospectively collected using the SAVES data collection. Logistic regression was used to model the likelihood of experiencing at least one AE based on the patient characteristics. The impact of the total number of AEs experienced by a patient and that of each of the most common AEs on LOS was determined using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Three hundred and ninety patients were included in the final analysis. Two hundred and seventy-six patients (70.8%) were treated operatively. One hundred and forty patients (36%) experienced neurologic deficit as a result of their initial injury. Adverse events occurred 56% of the time in the operatively treated patients and only 13% of the time in the nonoperative group. The presence of neurologic deficit increased the risk of AEs especially in high thoracic (T1-T6) trauma increasing the odds of having an AE by 12.1 (p<.0001). The most common AEs were urinary tract infections (19.7%), neuropathic pain (12.3%), pneumonias (11.8%), delirium (10.5%), and ileus (6.2%). Length of hospital stay increased significantly with pneumonia (p<.0001) and delirium (p=.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of neurologic injury and the need for operative fixation of thoracic or lumbar injuries lead to a greater risk of AEs. Only pneumonia and delirium consistently increase LOS.

Treatment of thoracolumbar fracture

The most common fractures of the spine are associated with the thoracolumbar junction. The goals of treatment of thoracolumbar fracture are leading to early mobilization and rehabilitation by restoring mechanical stability of fracture and inducing neurologic recovery, thereby enabling patients to return to the workplace. However, it is still debatable about the treatment methods. Neurologic injury should be identified by thorough physical examination for motor and sensory nerve system in order to determine the appropriate treatment. The mechanical stability of fracture also should be evaluated by plain radiographs and computed tomography. In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging is required to evaluate soft tissue injury involving neurologic structure or posterior ligament complex. Based on these physical examinations and imaging studies, fracture stability is evaluated and it is determined whether to use the conservative or operative treatment. The development of instruments have led to more interests on the operative treatment which saves mobile segments without fusion and on instrumentation through minimal invasive approach in recent years. It is still controversial for the use of these treatments because there have not been verified evidences yet. However, the morbidity of patients can be decreased and good clinical and radiologic outcomes can be achieved if the recent operative treatments are used carefully considering the fracture pattern and the injury severity.

Bracing for thoracolumbar fractures

Traumatic fractures of the thoracolumbar spine are relatively common occurrences that can be a source of pain and disability. Similarly, osteoporotic vertebral fractures are also frequent events and represent a significant health issue specific to the elderly. Neurologically intact patients with traumatic thoracolumbar fractures can commonly be treated nonoperatively with bracing. Nonoperative treatment is not suitable for patients with neurological deficits or highly unstable fractures. The role of operative versus nonoperative treatment of burst fractures is controversial, with high-quality evidence supporting both options. Osteoporotic vertebral fractures can be managed with bracing or vertebral augmentation in most cases. There is, however, a lack of high-quality evidence comparing operative versus nonoperative fractures in this population. Bracing is a low-risk, cost-effective method to treat certain thoracolumbar fractures and offers efficacy equivalent to that of surgical management in many cases. The evidence for bracing of osteoporotic-type fractures is less clear, and further investigation will be necessary to delineate its optimal role.

Evidence-based management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures: a systematic review of nonoperative management

OBJECT

The overall evidence for nonoperative management of patients with traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures is unknown. There is no agreement on the optimal method of conservative treatment. Recent randomized controlled trials that have compared nonoperative to operative treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficits yielded conflicting results. By assessing the level of evidence on conservative management through validated methodologies, clinicians can assess the availability of critically appraised literature. The purpose of this study was to examine the level of evidence for the use of conservative management in traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of the English literature over the past 20 years was conducted using PubMed (MEDLINE). The inclusion criteria consisted of burst fractures resulting from a traumatic mechanism, and fractures of the thoracic or lumbar spine. The exclusion criteria consisted of osteoporotic burst fractures, pathological burst fractures, and fractures located in the cervical spine. Of the studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria, any study in which nonoperative treatment was used was included in this review.

RESULTS

One thousand ninety-eight abstracts were reviewed and 447 papers met inclusion/exclusion criteria, of which 45 were included in this review. In total, there were 2 Level-I, 7 Level-II, 9 Level-III, 25 Level-IV, and 2 Level-V studies. Of the 45 studies, 16 investigated conservative management techniques, 20 studies compared operative to nonoperative treatments, and 9 papers investigated the prognosis of conservative management.

CONCLUSIONS

There are 9 high-level studies (Levels I-II) that have investigated the conservative management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures. In neurologically intact patients, there is no superior conservative management technique over another as supported by a high level of evidence. The conservative technique can be based on patient and surgeon preference, comfort, and access to resources. A high level of evidence demonstrated similar functional outcomes with conservative management when compared with open surgical operative management in patients who were neurologically intact. The presence of a neurological deficit is not an absolute contraindication for conservative treatment as supported by a high level of evidence. However, the majority of the literature excluded patients with neurological deficits. More evidence is needed to further classify the appropriate burst fractures for conservative management to decrease variables that may impact the prognosis.

Evidence-Based Medicine of Traumatic Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures: A Systematic Review of Operative Management across 20 Years

Study Design Systematic literature review. Objective The management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBF) remains challenging, and analyzing the levels of evidence (LOEs) for treatment practices can reform the decision-making process. However, no review has yet evaluated the operative management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures with particular attention placed on LOE from an established methodology. The objective of the present study was to characterize the literature evidence for TLBF, specifically for operative management. Methods A comprehensive search of the English literature over the past 20 years was conducted using PubMed (MEDLINE). The inclusion criteria consisted of (1) traumatic burst fractures (2) in the thoracic or lumbar spine. Exclusion criteria included (1) osteoporotic burst fractures, (2) pathologic burst fractures, (3) cervical fractures, (4) biomechanical studies or those involving cadavers, and (5) computer-based studies. Studies were assigned an LOE and those meeting level 1 or 2 were included. Results From 1,138 abstracts, 272 studies met the criteria. Twenty-three studies (8.5%) met level 1 (n = 4, 1.5%) or 2 (n = 19, 7.0%) criteria. All 23 studies were reported. Conclusions The literature contains a high LOE to support the operative management of traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures. For patients who are neurologically intact, a high LOE demonstrated similar functional outcomes, lower complication rates, and less costs with conservative management when compared with surgical management. There is a high LOE for short- or long-segment pedicle instrumentation without fusion and less invasive (percutaneous and paraspinal) approaches. Furthermore, the posterior approaches are associated with lower complications as opposed to the anterior or combined approaches.