Managing Incomplete and Complete Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures (AO Spine A3 and A4). Results from a Prospective Single-Center Study Comparing Posterior Percutaneous Instrumentation plus Mini-Open Anterolateral Fusion versus Single-Stage Posterior Instrumented Fusion

The treatment strategy for thoracolumbar burst fractures is still debated. aim of this study to evaluate clinical and radiologic outcomes a 2-stage with immediate posterior percutaneous instrumentation delayed anterolateral fusion (group A) versus single-stage open instrumented B). Demographics surgical data patients operated AO Spine A3 A4 were prospectively collected. Vertebral height deformity evaluated before after surgery. Visual analog scale score back pain, Oswestry Disability Index, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey results quality-of-life assessment collected during follow-up. Among the 110 enrolled, 66 allocated group A 44 B; most common fractured level was T12 (34%). Postoperative complications higher in B, especially wound infection rate (18% vs. 3%), pseudomeningocele (14% 0%). approach allowed an average long-term gain 15.8° at local kyphosis vertebra 5.8° regional (Cobb angle), 15.4° 5.5° B. At 2 years follow-up, both groups showed significant functional improvements; however, visual Index metrics seemed more favorable (P < 0.0001 P 0.003). complete obtained 100% 65% Our indicates that anterior or expandable cage lead excellent lower complication than those approaches.