The Application Of Computer Assisted Navigation Technique In The Treatment Of Thoracolumbar Fracture

[Objective] To study the treatment of thoracolumbar fracture with computer assisted navigation technique.[Method] A retrospective analysis was carried out in 86 cases with thoracolumbar fracture and dislocation from March 2003 to December 2008. There were 46 cases received pedicle screw fixation with computer assisted navigation technique (A group). There were 28 males and 18females,ranging from 18-56years (average 35 years).Segments involved:T11 8 cases,T12 14cases,L116 cases,L28 cases, According to the classification of Macffee:flexion compression fracture 19 cases, burst fracture18 cases, Chance fracture 3 cases, fracture and dislocation 6 cases. There were 46 cases received pedicle screw fixation with no computer assisted navigation technique (B group), there was no different in age, distinction, mechanism of injury, type of fracture and pedicle screw.[result] The A group was better than B group in accuracy of screw placement, The mean operation time was 128±38 min. in A group and 158±42 min in B group, There were statistically significant difference between A and B groups(P<0.05). The mean blood loss during operation was307±60 ml in A group and 412±82 ml in B group, There were statistically significant difference between A and B groups(P<0.05). All patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months(15 months on average). However there was no statistically significant difference between A and B groups in recover of height of compressed vertebral body.[conclusion] In order to achieve the best effect in the treatment of thoracolumbar fracture, correct treatments of primary trauma and injury type and appropriate management are necessary for the treatment of thoracolumbar fracture. Also, computer assisted navigation system enhances accuracies and further improves the safety of spine surgery.