Transpedicular fixation of thoracolumbar fractures.
Surgical treatment of thoracolumbar vertebral fractures is a controversial issue, especially in light of its doubtful advantages. Moreover, methods previously available have been associated with certain drawbacks, including insufficient stability.  With the application of a new therapeutic principle in which the screws of the fixation instrument are placed in the pedicles of the vertebrae, the stability of vertebral fractures is improved considerably.  This will increase the degree of mobilization, shorten the period of disability, and improve the comfort of the patient.  Early effective stabilization, combined with decompression if necessary, also provides the best possibility for restoration of neurologic function.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.
G
G
Karlström
S
S
Olerud
L
L
Sjöstrom
D000328:Adult; D001863:Bone Screws; D004434:Early Ambulation; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005594:Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000601:surgery*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery