[Surgical treatment of tuberculous spondylitis using ceramic implants]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Infectious Disease Management

Background:

• Traditional osseous grafts for tuberculous spondylitis have significant drawbacks, including prolonged recovery and the need for rigid spinal bracing.
• Current treatments necessitate extensive bedside care and external immobilization, impacting patient mobility and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of ceramic implants as a primary stabilization method for tuberculous spondylitis.
• To assess the potential of ceramic implants to eliminate the need for postoperative corset fixation and reduce surgical invasiveness.

Main Methods:

• Forty-nine patients aged 23-65 underwent surgical treatment using ceramic implants for tuberculous spondylitis.
• The study monitored neurological recovery, implant-to-bone integration, and long-term functional outcomes, including disability status.

Main Results:

• Complete resolution of neurological deficits occurred in 7 patients, with significant improvements in others.
• Complete osteoceramic adhesion was observed within 2-4 months post-surgery.
• Twenty-six patients were removed from the disability register, with remaining patients experiencing improved, though persistent, disability due to comorbidities.

Conclusions:

• Ceramic implants provide effective primary stabilization for tuberculous spondylitis, obviating the need for external bracing and reducing surgical trauma.
• This approach leads to significant neurological recovery and improved functional capacity, with a notable reduction in long-term disability.