Publication:

Outcome of posterior decompression by L1 laminectomy, transpedicular fixation, posterolateral fusion in burst fracture L1 with incomplete spinal cord injury

Introduction Burst fractures are more severe than compression fractures as the bones spread out in all directions and may damage the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or nerve injury. This study aims to find the surgical outcomes of Posterior Decompression by L1 Laminectomy in terms of burst fracture with incomplete spinal cord injury.

Methods 48 adult patients with burst fractures with incomplete spinal injury came to NITR from June 2023 to May 2024. In this non-randomized clinical trial, the outcomes of decompression by L1 laminectomy were analysed by using the canal encroachment ratio, while deformity correction was assessed using the sagittal Cobb angle and the percentage of anterior vertebral height for the treatment of L1 burst fracture with incomplete spinal cord injury.

Results The patients were followed up for an average of 12 months. The mean operation time was 154.53 minutes, mean intraoperative blood loss of 48.84 mL, and the mean incision length was 7.78 cm. The canal encroachment ratio decreased significantly, as well as the sagittal Cobb angle, and anterior vertebral percentage height increased. Oswestry Disability Index, and American Spinal Injury Association impairment scale classification were significant.

Conclusions Posterior decompression combined with Transpedicular Fixation and Posterolateral Fusion in the treatment of Burst Fracture L1 with Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury is safe and effective.