COMPLICATIONS AFTER TRANSPEDICULAR STABILIZATION OF THE SPINE - A SURVIVORSHIP ANALYSIS OF 163 CASES

Objectives. The authors studied complications of transpedicular stabilization methods. Summary of Background Data. One hundred and sixty-three consecutive transpedicular stabilization procedures were performed between January 1987 and December 1991. The indications for stabilization were trauma (33 cases), metastatic spinal disorder (30 cases), spinal stenosis (33 cases), spondylolisthesis (27 cases), ankylosing spondylitis (6 cases), low back pain (22 cases), and miscellaneous (12 cases). Methods. Patients records and the entire series of radiographs for each case were scrutinized by independent observers. All per- and postoperative complications, including implant loosening and fatigue, were recorded. Clinical and radiographic survivorship analyses of the implants were performed. Results. Early complications were unusual and none were associated with permanent morbidity. The probability of not having the implant removed in the first postoperative year was 85%. There was a 40% risk of radiographic failure, defined as loosening or implant fatigue, at 6 months. The-outcome was more favorable in cases in which anterior vertebral interbody fusion was also performed. Conclusions. Transpedicular fixation is a safe procedure with a low incidence of serious per- and early postoperative complications. The mechanical durability of transpedicular fixators used alone is a cause for concern.