Management of thoracic and lumbar spine fractures with Harrington distraction rods supplemented with segmental wiring

Abstract

Fifteen patients with acute, unstable fractures of the thoracolumbar spine were treated with Harrington distraction rods supplemented with segmental sublaminar wires. This proved to be an effective means of managing these fractures, enhancing stability and decreasing the complication rate. No patients developed hook cut-out, pseudarthrosis or gibbus. The amount and duration of external immobilization is decreased enhancing rehabilitation in spinal cord injuries.