Operation of latero-anterior internal fixation by nail-stick and titanium mesh and bone graft for treatment of thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis

Objective To evaluate the clinical value of the one-stage anterior radical debridement,titanium mesh cages(TMCS)bone fusion and internal fixation for the treatment of thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis.MethodsTwenty-one thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis cases from February 2001 to March 2008 were analyzed retrospectively,There were 12 males and 9 females,and mean age was 48.5 years old(18 to 72 years old),operative methods including anterior radical debridement、bone fusion with titanium mesh cages combined anterior internal fixation were performed.During this period perioperative complications were observed.Degree of byphosis、intervertebral averaging height、bone fusion and TMCS subsidence pre and postoperatively were determined.ResultsAll the patients were followed up for 20 to 48 months postopratively,with the average of 26 months.In addition to the emergence of 1 cage of intercostals neuralgia,the remaining 20 patients had no postoperative complications.During the follow-up found no residual or recurrent lesions of tuberculosis.The postoperative kyphosis angle was(7.0±2.5)°,the loss angle of kyphosis correction was(4.1±1.5)°,All patients reached the end follow-up bone healing.ConclusionThe significant curative effect of one-stage anterior radical debridement,titanium mesh cages bone fusion and internal fixation for the treatment of thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis,The procedure allows satisfactive correction of kyphosis,complete decomperation and lower recurrence.