Radiological and Functional Outcome of Short Segment Posterior Stabilization with Intermediate Pedicle Screw in Single Level Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures: A Prospective Study

Background: Thoracolumbar junction (D11-L2) is very prone for injury because of its location between rigid kyphotic thoracic spine and mobile lordotic lumbar spine. Method: 35 patients treated with short segment pedicle screw fixation with intermediate screw. Clinical (oswestry disability index) and radiological (local kyphotic angle and beck?s index) parameters were used. Results: Most of our patients were male (28 male), 7 female (25.71%)]. Most common involved level L1 (80%) and D12 (25%).Mean preop ODI is 92.037 which decreased to 28.673. Mean preop local kyphotic angle is 15.028? which was corrected to 4.057? with correction loss of 0.657? at final follow-up. Mean preop beck?s index was 0.543 which was corrected to was 0.864 with correction loss of 0.024 at final follow-up. Conclusion: Reinforcement with intermediate screw for a single thoracolumbar burst fracture enhanced the stability. It was faciliative to correction of kyphosis with maintenance of the reduction effects with improved functional outcome. Nevertheless, long term studies are needed to support the outcomes.