How to select the fusion and fixation range of thoracolumbar and lumbar tuberculosis: A retrospective clinical study

Abstract Purpose To investigate the clinical data of thoracolumbar and lumbar spinal tuberculosis with diseased and non-diseased intervertebral surgery, evaluate the clinical efficacy of the two surgical methods, and explore how to choose the fusion of fixation range. Methods Among 221 patients with thoracolumbar and lumbar tuberculosis were categorized into two groups. 118 patients were in the diseased intervertebral surgery group (lesion vertebral pedicle fixation, group A) and there were 103 patients in the non-diseased intervertebral surgery group (1 or 2 vertebral fixation groups at the above and below levels of the affected vertebra, group B). Both groups of patients were treated with primary or staging, anterior combined complete lesion removal, bone graft fusion, and internal fixation. By analyzing of clinical data and the clinical efficacy of the two surgical methods in thoracolumbar and lumbar tuberculosis was evaluated. Results The mean follow-up duration was 65months (range 50–68 months). There were no significant differences in laboratory examination, VAS scores, and the Cobb angle correction rate and the angle loss, however, significant differences between the two groups in operation time, blood loss, drainage volume, and transfusion, the diseased intervertebral surgery group was significantly better than the non-diseased intervertebral surgery group. Meanwhile, the bone graft was fused entirely at the last follow-up. Conclusion Under the conditions of strictly grasping the indications for surgery, intervertebral surgery for thoracolumbar and lumbar tuberculosis is safe, effective, and feasible, and it can effectively restore its physiological curvature and reduce the degeneration of the adjacent vertebral body.