Mini-open lateral approach for anterior lumbar corpectomy combined with posterior screw-rod system augmentation for correction of kyphosis.

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic burst fractures most commonly occur in thoracolumbar junction. Maintenance of spinal stability and decompression of spinal canal are the main goals of management in these cases. Either anterior, posterior or combined approaches may be selected. For anterior corpectomy, mini-open lateral incision may be used.

CASE

29 years old male patient, in whom posterior segmental instrumentation had been performed previously, readmitted 4 months later with a complaint of low back pain and urinary and gait incontinence. Radiological scans revealed iatrogenic kyphosis and loosening of uppermost transpedicular screws. Patient was managed via revision of posterior instrumentation and L1 corpectomy with cage and rod insertion.

RESULT

In patients with thoracolumbar burst fracture, loosening of screws and consequent iatrogenic kyphosis may be seen as a late complication. Combined anterior and posterior approach may regenerate spinal stability in these patients. Moreover; mini-open lateral incision with muscle sparing thoracotomy for anterior approach may cause less postoperative complications.