Efficacy Of Short-Segment Transpedicular Fixation for Thoracolumbar Fractures in Terms of Improvement in Neurological Status

Objective:  To determine the efficacy of short-segment transpedicular fixation for thoracolumbar fractures in terms of improvement in neurological status. Materials and Methods:  A prospective observational research was conducted at Bacha Khan Medical Complex, Swabi, Section of Neurosurgery. Patients having traumatic thoracolumbar fractures with neurological deficits were subjected to short-segment transpedicular fixation and evaluated for post-operative improvement in neurological status at a 6-month follow-up. Results:  48 patients participated in the study. Mean age was 35.69±8.22 years and 60.4% were males. History of falls was the most common mechanism responsible for spinal injury i.e. 56.3%. D12 vertebra was fractured in 43.8% of patients. The leading type of fracture was, AO type B in 37.5% of patients. 23 (47.9%) of the patients showed one or more grade improvements in their neurological status on the ASIA scale at 6-month follow-up. Surgical site infection was the common postoperative complication (8.3%). Conclusion:  Short-segment transpedicular fixation is an effective procedure for traumatic thoracolumbar fractures in terms of improvement in neurological status.