Trauma: anterior versus posterior reconstruction in thoracic and lumbar fractures

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

When patient selection is adequate, posterior and anterior approaches and spinal instrumentation systems are both very effective for the reconstruction of severely damaged vertebral bodies of the thoracic and lumbar spine. Analysis of the injury by radiographs must be considered with patient-specific variables to determine treatment. Thoracic and lumbar pedicle screws and new anterior implants have revolutionized fracture treatment allowing short fusions, better fracture correction, and better retention of realignment. An autologous bone graft gives the best chances for solid bony fusion. Despite careful preoperative planning and meticulous surgery, complications do occur intraoperatively and postoperatively. Early recognition of such problems and prompt treatment are important to decrease the overall morbidity. Careful and appropriate patient selection and careful operative technique by experienced, well-trained surgeons insure the minimum amount of complications.