MANAGEMENT OF THORACOLUMBAR SPINE INJURIES AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Authors

  • Riaz A. Raja

Abstract

Background: The purpose of descriptive case series study was to see the conservative andsurgical outcome in respect of neurological improvement, sphincter functions and earlyambulation in cases of traumatic thoracolumbar injuries in a tertiary care hospital. Methods:This was a hospital based prospective study comprised of 50 thoracolumbar injury casesregistered during the period of 1 year from September 2005 to September 2006. All cases wereevaluated for their clinical features. During initial phase, level and degree of neurological injurywas assessed using Frankle grades. Operative and postoperative record with x-rays and MRIwere maintained. The follow-up ranged from 6 to 12 months with clinical and radiologicalassessment. Results: A total of 50 cases were registered, 43 (86%) were males and 7 (14%)were females. Fall was the most common cause of injury (92%). The most common levelinvolved was L1 (46%). The 2nd common site of injury was T12 (12%). The treatment given wasconservative in 42.55%, and surgery was performed on 57.44%. Three (6.38%) patients wereleft against medical advice. Conclusion: Thoracolumbar injuries occur in young population andcreates socio-economic burden to the society. Patients with partial neurological deficit benefitfrom surgery.Keywords: Spinal injury, Thoracolumbar, Fall, Road Traffic Accident

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Published

2010-03-01