One-stage posterior approach in the treatment of consecutive multi-segment thoracic tuberculosis with kyphosis.

AIM This study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of one-stage posterior approach in treating consecutive multiple-segment thoracic tuberculosis with kyphosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study was performed. The data of 22 patients with consecutive multi-level thoracic tuberculosis who underwent one-stage posterior approach of debridement, bone grafting, and drainage with pedicle screws fixation were collected. The kyphotic angle was 61.6°±3.1° pre-operatively. The neurologic status based on ASIA scoring were A in 5 cases, B in 4 cases, C in 9 cases, D in 3 cases and E in 1 case. RESULTS The average followed-up visit period was 43.4±5.0 months. The kyphotic angle was 19.8°±0.7° after operation (P 0.01), and 21.9°±1.2° at the last visit (p 0.01). No neurological deterioration was observed in all patients after surgery. A significant difference in ASIA score was detected before the operation and at the last visit (P 0.01). There was no recurrent paravertebral abscess of the thoracic tuberculosis in all these cases. CONCLUSION The current study showed one-stage posterior approach of debridement and drainage is a feasible surgical option for consecutive multi-segment thoracic tuberculosis with kyphosis. It can achieve the debridement, decompression, and stabilization simultaneously.