Experimental Evaluation of Correction Features of Posttraumatic Kyphosis of Thoracic and Lumbar Spine

Abstract

Experimental biomechanical study was performed in 60 spine specimens. Anterior wedge osteotomy and fixation of a specimen in a kyphotic position modeled kyphotic deformity. Deformity correction with various instrumentation systems was firstly performed by maximal extension of segments adjacent to kyphosis-producing block, and carried on after crossing of intervertebral anatomical structures. The study resulted in defining rational approach to surgical correction of posttraumatic deformities in the thoracic and lumbar spine. Minor kyphotic deformities are effectively corrected by instrumentation without mobilization of the spine. Large unfixed kyphosis sometimes requires anterior mobilization. Cases with rigid posttraumatic kyphotic deformity should be operated on with combined mobilization of the spine.