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Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine
Published in: Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine 2/2017

01-06-2017 | Motion Preserving Spine Surgery (C Kepler, section editor)

Temporary stabilization of unstable spine fractures

Authors: Aaron P. Danison, Darrin J. Lee, Ripul R. Panchal

Published in: Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine | Issue 2/2017

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

We will review the recent literature concerning the necessity of supplemental fusion to spinal instrumentation and discuss if temporal spinal fixation is a viable option for the treatment of unstable spine fractures. Advancements in minimally invasive techniques offer an alternative approach to traditional open stabilization for unstable spine fractures. The use of minimally invasive surgery offers many advantages concerning operative morbidly; fusion is not utilized and instrumentation can be removed in a delayed fashion.

Recent Findings

There are limited differences in amount of correction loss over time, and multiple studies report equivocal to superior results in patient’s functional outcomes when comparing temporary internal stabilization to long segment instrumentation with fusion. Removal of implants can restore segmental motion.

Summary

Review of the literature demonstrates that temporary internal stabilization for unstable fractures is a viable option. Close clinical and radiographic follow-up is recommended to avoid delayed spinal deformity.
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Metadata
Title
Temporary stabilization of unstable spine fractures
Authors
Aaron P. Danison
Darrin J. Lee
Ripul R. Panchal
Publication date
01-06-2017
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine / Issue 2/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1935-9748
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-017-9402-y

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