Posterior instrumentation and fusion for unstable fractures and fracture-dislocations of the thoracic and lumbar spine. A comparative study of three fixation devices in 70 patients

Abstract

Acute unstable thoracic and lumbar spine fractures were treated with either Harrington rods and hooks, Luque rods with sublaminar wires, or A-O dynamic compression plates with pedicle screws. The results demonstrated failure of all three techniques to maintain the sagittal plane correction at 12 months' follow-up. Furthermore, in lumbar fractures, Harrington rods did not restore or maintain sagittal plane alignment as well as Luque rods or pedicle screws and plates. Lastly, the pedicle screw fixation system required a shorter segment fusion.