ABSTRACT
Object: To compare the efficacy of trans-vertebral vs. cross-vertebral intra-short-segment fixation for the treatment of thoracolumbar vertebral fractures.
Method: Sixty-seven cases of thoracolumbar single-segment fractures that were collected between August 2010 and June 2013 were included in this study. Of the total amount, 32 cases were treated with trans-vertebral intra-pedicle fixation (Group A) and 35 cases were treated with cross-vertebral intra-short-segment fixation (Group B). All patients received their surgeries within two weeks after their injuries. The operational time and intra-operational blood loss, as well as the Denis pain scale scores and the failures of the internal fixations, were recorded.
Result: In both groups, the Cobb corners were reduced and the heights of the vertebral anterior edges of the fractured vertebras were increased, with statistical significance (P<0.05). There was no statistical significance in the Denis pain scale score within the post-operational 12 months between the two groups, but group A was slightly better than group B.
Conclusion: Selective adoption of trans-vertebral internal fixation can enhance the quality of restoration as well as the stability of the internal fixing system, thus maintaining the effectiveness of the restoration. It is an effective clinical approach for thoracolumbar fractures.
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