Modified minimally invasive technique for decompression and reduction of thoracolumbar burst fracture with...

There are few reports about minimally invasive decompression and fixation for patients with thoracolumbar fracture and neurological symptoms. The previously reported method requires complete laminectomy, and removal of the medial part of the pedicle to expose the spinal canal for reduction. Thus, some approach-related damage to the bony structure and soft tissue still occurs. This study was performed to describe a modified minimally invasive tube technique for decompression and reduction of thoracolumbar fracture with neurological symptoms. This modified technique preserves most of the posterior structures of the spine as well as the muscle.

Percutaneous pedicle screws were placed on the vertebrae superior and inferior to the fracture and at the fracture segment on the side with less severe symptoms. After retraction, the tube for decompression was placed on the facet joint where the decompression was needed. Under microscopic vision, part of the lamina and ligamentum flavum were removed to expose the spinal canal, and an L-shaped probe was used to reduce the bone fragment.

The modified method was successfully used in eight patients. Complete decompression was achieved and the bone fragment was safely reduced through the tube under microscopy in all cases. Fluoroscopy confirmed that the positioning of the percutaneous pedicle screw was good and the bone fragment was reduced. The neurological status was improved in all patients at last follow up.

The modified method of minimally invasive decompression and fusion is effective in treating thoracolumbar fractures with neurological symptoms and preserves most of the ligaments and bone structure.