Use of minimally invasive surgical techniques in the management of thoracolumbar trauma: current concepts.
METHODS
Literature review and expert opinion.


OBJECTIVE
To provide an overview of the current concepts of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques for the management of thoracolumbar (TL) spinal trauma.


BACKGROUND
Current surgical treatment of thoracolumbar trauma typically involves open placement of spinal instrumentation with fusion. Conventional open spinal exposures can be associated with significant muscle morbidity that can lead to subsequent paraspinal muscular atrophy, scarring, decreased extensor strength and endurance, as well as pain. This approach-related morbidity is the main impetus for application MIS techniques to spinal procedures including trauma.


METHODS
A review of the relevant English literature was performed.


RESULTS
The current rationale, clinical applications, outcomes, and limitation of MIS management of TL injuries are summarized.


CONCLUSIONS
The application of MIS techniques to spinal trauma is theoretically sound. However, the indications and technology are currently in evolution. Although very limited information is available, the results of current MIS techniques for the management of TL trauma are encouraging.
Rampersaud
Y Raja
YR
Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. raja.rampersaud@uhn.on.ca
Annand
Neel
N
Dekutoski
Mark B
MB