[Segmental posterior spinal osteosynthesis using the Luque-Dove technic]

The Hartshill frame is method for segmental osteosynthesis of the spine. It is attached at each vertebral level by sub-laminal metal wires. This frame therefore ensures immediate stability and avoids the need for a post-operative corset. It enables correction of frontal deformities (scoliosis) whilst retaining sagittal physiological curves (lumbar lordosis--dorsal kyphosis). It ensures the fixation of posterior spinal instability (destruction of posterior ligaments and bone tissue, spondylolisthesis, etc.). The Hartshill frame can thus be seen to be a posterior brace. It has been used in 92 patients, (53 lumbar disorders, 10 cases of scoliosis, 4 of kyphosis, 19 tumors, 6 fractures). Results are generally entirely satisfactory in the mid term apart from fractures (recurrence of initial displacement). Specific complications are of a neurological nature (cases of cutaneous hyperesthesia, one severe motor deficit) long-term problems with device and material are uncommon; rupture of sub-laminar wire 8 cases; secondary incurving of frame 1 case.