Sensory Outcome after Transpedicular Screw Fixation Fractures of Thoracolumbar Fractures

Background: Burst fractures of spine occur when vertebra are axially loaded resulting in reduced vertebral height & space. Modern concept favors surgery with expectation of early neurological recovery and early return to work. Orthopedic fractures are a common daily acute health issue. With the advancement of surgery, transpedicular screw fixation is observed to be effective in achieving success. Objectives: The objective of this study is to determine the functional outcome of transpedicular screw fixation in patients with burst fractures of thoracolumbar region. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Neurosurgery, Jinnah Hospital, Karachi within 6 months of period from December 2018 to May 2019. Methods: It was a descriptive case series study conducted on patients admitted within one week of Burst fractures of thoracolumbar region. Informed consent was taken. Initial assessment and treatment were given in emergency department. Postoperatively patients were followed-up for assessment of pain using Denis pain scale and neurosensory function using ASIA on the 1st post-op day, 1st week, 2nd week, 4th week, 6th week, 3rd month and 6th month. No or mild pain and normal neurosensory function was labeled. Results: The mean ages of the patients was noted as 32.26 +/- 14.86 years. The male patients were 74% whereas the female patients were 26%. The study results showed that 92% patients had no pain status whereas the only 8% patients had pain. The study results showed that 84% patients had normal sensation whereas the only 16% patients had abnormal sensations. Conclusion: Thus it was proved through results of this study that transpedicular screw fixation for burst fracture for thoracolumbar region are effective in controlling pain and neurosensory function of patients.