Accuracy and complications of pedicle screw insertion for lumbar and thoracolumbar fractures

Background: The accuracy of pedicle screw placement is essential for lumbar and thoracolumbar spine fracture fixation.

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to assess the accuracy of the pedicle screw placement with conventional C-arm fuoroscopy-guided in these patients.

Methods: A retrospective review identified patients who underwent operative management with thoracolumbar instruments at our hospital between June 2012 and August 2013. Clinical data were acquired from medical records and final screw positions were graded based on a classification of Gertzbein and Robbins.

Results: A total of 216 pedicle screws in 52 patients (34 males, mean age 32.6±5.8 years) were evaluated. They were instrumented with transpedicular posterior fixation technique within 72 hours. The follow-up time was 6.1 months (ranging from 1 to 14 months). The screws were graded A (n=43 [19.9%]), B (n=89 [41.2%]), C (n=62 [28.7%]), D (n=21 [9.7%]), and E (n=1 [0.5%]). One of the screws was revised on the second day after surgery due to screw malposition.

Conclusion: Based on existing facilities, the findings showed that the pedicle instrumentation screws with transpedicular posterior fixation technique in patients with lumbar and thoracolumbar fractures can be done with acceptable complication rate. However, more advanced equipment as CT navigation (O-arm) is recommended for higher accuracy.