TREATMENT OF THORACOLUMBAR MULTIPLE FRACTURES WITH MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY

ABSTRACT Objective: To demonstrate that the extrapedicular unilateral percutaneous treatment in multiple thoracolumbar fractures is effective, minimally invasive and can treat several vertebrae at the same time in the same surgery. Method: From January 2007 to January 2015 306 patients with multiple vertebral fractures in the thoracolumbar junction of various etiologies were treated, of which 246 were women and 60 men. Results: The extrapedicular unilateral treatment shows good clinical results that are maintained over time, is performed on an outpatient basis with minimal complications, and enables rapid incorporation of patients to their daily activities. Conclusions: Our study shows that unilateral extrapedicular percutaneous kyphoplasty is an effective treatment for multiple thoracolumbar vertebral fractures. This method makes the procedure less invasive, allowing multiple levels are treated in the same surgical intervention, resulting in relief of pain and stability of the spine, minimal complications and immediate return of the patient to daily activities.