Thoracolumbar fractures have been treated conservatively in the past. This mode of treatment is accompanied with various complications. It is very laborious. Cost of therapy in terms of hospital stay and care by trained personnel is also very high. In our country, where there is an acute shortage of trained persons conservative management, more often  ends up as benign neglect.

Methodology: This study was a prospective study of fixation with pedicle screw and fusion in traumatic unstable thoracolumbar spine. During the period 20 cases of traumatic thoracolumbar spine fractures were treated surgically with posterior decompression and fusion.

Results: In our study 55% of the cases were of Grade A power, 25% cases were Grade C power and 20% of cases were of Grade B power on admission. Only 30% patients had useful recovery (Grade D & E) .Type A fractures and type B fractures had incidence of 40% each. Fall from height was the most common cause.

Conclusion: It was observed that posterior stabilization with pedicle screw was effective. And showed improvement in the neurological status.

It was much better in patients with incomplete cord Injury. Early mobilization and ambulation are the major advantages of this procedure. The results in our series of 20 cases have been encouraging. But there is need for more cases and longer follow-up.

Keywords: thoracolumbar fractures, management, complications, pedicle screws.

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Dr Richa Sharma

Assistant Professor SLBS GMC Nerchowk H.P., India