Additional vertebral augmentation with posterior instrumentation for unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures

Nineteen patients were analyzed, revealing that those who received both reduction and augmentation had better sagittal alignment postoperatively.

• Patients receiving only reduction had a notable implant failure rate, with one out of five requiring revision surgery.
• Better sagittal alignment was observed in patients who received both reduction and augmentation, compared to those who only had reduction.
• Transpedicular vertebral augmentation may help reinforce the stability of thoracolumbar burst fractures.
• The use of calcium sulfate/phosphate-based bone cement could partially restore vertebral body height.
• Augmentation is associated with reduced bending and movement of pedicle screws, which may help prevent early implant failure.

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