Minimally incisional stabilization of unstable L5 burst fracture.
BACKGROUND
Burst fractures of the L5 vertebral body are uncommon. Treatment options described include prolonged immobilization and surgical stabilization, most commonly with an instrumented fusion from L4 to the sacrum.


METHODS
We describe the use of a minimally incisional technique to provide temporary internal fixation in a patient with an L5 burst fracture who was not a candidate for prolonged immobilization.


RESULTS
This technique resulted in an excellent outcome without the requirement for a fusion.


CONCLUSIONS
Minimally incisional fixation procedures are a treatment option for select patients with L5 burst fractures.
Sahin
Soner
S
Spinal Surgery Program, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison WI 53792-0001, USA.
Resnick
Daniel K
DK
D000328:Adult; D001863:Bone Screws; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D050815:Fractures, Compression / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000601:surgery*