To evaluate the radiographic results and clinical efficacy of trans-intervertebral space osteotomy (TIO) in the treatment of post-traumatic thoracolumbar kyphosis (PTK).
Approach:
Study Design: Single-center retrospective cohort study analyzing clinical data from PTK patients who underwent TIO between January 2018 and December 2022.
Patient Inclusion: 38 patients (18 males, 20 females) with an average age of 52.1 ± 9.2 years were included based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Surgical Method: Patients underwent TIO with internal fixation, involving a posterior midline incision and resection of specific vertebral structures.
Outcome Measures: Radiographic parameters and clinical outcomes (VAS and ODI scores) were measured preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the last follow-up.
Key Findings:
Significant improvement in thoracic kyphosis, thoracolumbar kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, focal kyphosis, and sagittal vertical axis postoperatively (p < 0.05).
No significant changes in pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, and sacral slope (p > 0.05).
VAS score decreased from 6.0 ± 1.1 preoperatively to 1.2 ± 0.8 at last follow-up (p < 0.05).
ODI reduced from 56.9 ± 7.1% preoperatively to 15.7 ± 3.9% at last follow-up (p < 0.05).
At final follow-up, 3 cases were grade D and 35 cases were grade E according to Frankel classification.
Interpretation:
TIO for PTK patients achieves satisfactory correction of spinal deformity and favorable clinical outcomes, with successful fusion and few complications.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce selection bias.
Single-center study limits generalizability of findings.
Small sample size may affect statistical power.
Conclusion:
TIO is effective for correcting spinal deformity in PTK patients, with positive clinical outcomes and minimal complications.
