Computed tomography-guided percutaneous focal catheter infusion in the treatment of spinal tuberculosis

The study aimed to investigate the efficacy of computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous focal catheter infusion for the treatment of spinal tuberculosis. Clinical and follow-up data from 27 spinal tuberculosis patients who underwent CT-guided intervertebral catheterized infusion chemotherapy from May 2008 to October 2011 were retrospectively analyzed; treatment included pure intervertebral infusion chemotherapy and catheter drainage for continuous abscess washing during infusion chemotherapy. All surgeries were successfully completed under CT guidance without complications. The C-reactive protein levels of most patients rebounded within the first postoperative week but significantly decreased after the second and fourth postoperative weeks. CT-guided percutaneous focal catheter infusion was effective for the treatment of spinal tuberculosis and induced little trauma; this treatment could also relieve the symptoms and improve the quality of life of elderly patients with poor general conditions.