"Outcome of thoracolumbar compression fractures following non-operative treatment"

Axial compressive/flexion moderate forces on the anterior spinal elements may cause vertebral compression fractures (VCF), compromising the anterior column of the spine, reducing vertebral body height and leading to characteristic wedge-shaped deformity. 60% to 75% of VCFs are located in the thoracolumbar junction (T12 - L2) due to mechanical forces upon the transition from the relatively fixed thoracic to the relatively mobile lumbar spine. Compression force spinal fractures vary in literature according to the classification system in use, resulting in controversial treatment options. Type A fracture patterns of AO classification are eligible for non-operative treatment provided the posterior complex is intact and there are no neurologic complications. That includes both simple compressive and burst fractures. The aim of this study is to investigate the long-term consequences of non-operative treated compressive thoracolumbar fractures regarding posttraumatic deformity, chronic back pain, and functional status. A retrospective study of 75 patients with stable (compressive and burst type A AO) spinal fractures of the thoracolumbar spine (T12-L2) without neurological symptoms and treated non-operatively was conducted. Post traumatic regional kyphosis, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used to evaluate deformity progression, pain and alteration of the quality of life during follow up. There was no significant correlation between magnitude of posttraumatic regional kyphosis, sex, pain score and disability index. Statistically significant correlation between patients age and disability index was revealed.