[Standard operative technic in fresh fractures of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae]

Undesirable sequelae of spinal column injuries are chronic instabilities and decompensated axis shifts. If a poor functional result can be expected after the initiation of conservative treatment, indication for surgery should be considered as early as possible. The authors describe a surgical technique which can be employed both in emergencies and electively on account of its standardization; it consists of dorsal repositioning manoeuvres that result in short-distance fusioning of the spinal column to achieve stable functioning. However, repositioning via the dorsal approach can be effected with maximum success only if it is done within the first 10 to 14 days.