Biomechanical comparison of posterior short-segment fixation with or without intermediate screws for thoracolumbar burst fractures under normal and osteoporotic conditions: a finite element analysis

Key Points

• This research aims to determine the effectiveness of different fixation techniques for treating thoracolumbar burst fractures under varied conditions.
• Conducted a finite element analysis to simulate thoracolumbar burst fractures
• Compared posterior short-segment fixation with and without intermediate screws
• Assessed mechanical performance under normal and osteoporotic conditions
• More rigid six-screw constructs showed lower risk of mechanical failure
• Intermediate screws in fixation significantly improved stability in osteoporotic models
• Findings suggest better outcomes for patients with osteoporosis