title: Stabilization procedures for thoracic and lumbar fractures.
abstract: New concepts regarding the biomechanics of spinal instability, new technology for spinal and neurodiagnostic imaging, further evolution of the role of neurological decompression, and the development of improved systems and techniques for achieving anatomical reconstruction and fixation of the spine continue to improve the care of patients suffering injuries of the thoracic and lumbar spine. This field of medicine is in rapid evolution, and newer improved methods will be forthcoming in the near future. An understanding of all of these developments as well as their limitations and potential complications is requisite if we are to optimize the functional capability of patients suffering these catastrophic injuries.
authors.forename: G W
authors.initials: GW
authors.lastname: Sypert
mesh_terms: D001864:Bone Wires; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D009493:Neurosurgery / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery