Transpedicular fixation of the spine: rehabilitation, complications, photos

In the XX century a new method of fixation of the spine was a real breakthrough. It was opened approximately in the middle of the century, and called transpedicular fixation of the spine (DFT). The method consists in the addition of titanium screws in the spine using pediculi. The goal of this method of fixation is to create a reliable support for the spine. This has been achieved through a sturdy construction.

This method of treatment is the short duration of rehabilitation. The patient very soon discharged, and after a relatively short period of time in comparison with other treatment methods, it is possible to return to work and normal life. Healing with this technique is fast, the bones are spliced correctly.

Indications and contraindications

Transpedicular fixation of the spine is used to treat certain segments of the spine. The design includes the rods and screws installed on the spine and allows you to support your back. Prescribe the method of fixation with increased motor activity of the ridge. In addition, the problem may be due to excessive pressure on the vertebrae or pinching of nerve roots.

The method leads to certain consequences: developing a variety of inflammation, is abnormal growth and functioning of the spine, which is manifested severe pain behind.

Appoint DFT fractures of the vertebrae, stenosis, and injuries of different parts of the spine. Transpedicular fixation is also used in some types of curvature and deformation of the spine. Usually back problems are progressive in nature, so they should be treated in the initial stages of development.

Other problems of the spine, which can be treated by DFT:

• Compression of the neural structures;
• Instability of the spine;
• Violation of the functionality of the intervertebral discs.

The presence of these defects in the spine using transpedicular fixation has no negative effects and complications. To apply the technique of almost all. For example, even in the presence of Allergy doctors prescribe this fixation. However, possible limitations in cases of rejection by the body third party body.

During the installation of the retainer fractures also has some contraindications. In the case of dysfunction of the upper parts of the thoracic ridge to fix the installation is not recommended.

Also it is not desirable to apply DFT in the following cases:

• During pregnancy;
• In the presence of excess weight;
• At the advanced stage of osteoporosis;
• Intolerance by the body of foreign bodies;
• During development of infections of the vertebrae.

The steps in the procedure of fixing

Fixation of the lumbar spine was done in four stages:

• The stage plan;
• Training surgery;
• Mount design and direct intervention;
• The recovery phase after the surgery.

The first stage is the planning. To do this, pick up the screws and find the most appropriate method of construction. Make a choice based on personal characteristics of the patient, the individual characteristics of his body. Special attention is paid to exclusion of probability of deterioration of the vessel or adverse effects on the nervous system.

Commit exposed to one or two segments. Screws used about five. Some cases require support for all the vertebrae, in severe cases, damage. If you happen to install only one segment, you only need to choose the right rods.

More complicated is the task facing the surgeon, who needs to anchor not one, but several segments. The plan will be longer because of the need in advance to make a wire template. It needs to display all the curves that should be fixed.

Rods, respectively, will be selected under this template. In conclusion, the preparatory phase is the lateral stabilizer mount. He preduprejdaet possible shift after surgery. Special attention is paid to installation of the screw, it must be placed on each vertebra to prevent dysfunction of the screws.

Go to step direct operation. The patient lies on the table in such a way as to not be exposed to pressure of the chest and abdomen. For this purpose, reference items and cushions. On the spine there should also be pressure, it needs to be in a comfortable position. To enter the bolts should be at a certaindepth. Usually it does not reach 80%.

Before transpedicular fixation of the spine was considered to be a complex and voluminous treatment, as it involved multiple incisions and thorough separation of muscles from bones. The surgery was extremely traumatic and provoked large blood loss. Downside was the excessive duration of the operation as a result of this, and a long recovery overall condition of the body. A new technique has eliminated almost all the negative aspects of operative fixation.

To change the position of the body after a successful operation the patient will have after a few days. The patient remains in the hospital more than a week. Very soon he begins to move independently and gradually return to an active lifestyle. The only thing that may cause slight discomfort is the corset that some time is necessary to wear after surgery. Back to normal lessons, to be fully able-bodied person will be able in a month. This is an extremely short-term rehabilitation. By the end of the year there is a complete fusion of the bones.

• See also: Corset in scoliosis

Consequences and complications

Method DFT can lead to many complications. It is essential that the procedure is performed a specialist with great experience, because any surgical error can lead to disastrous consequences. It errors at the planning stage, during the immediate operative interference. It is important to pay special attention to the rehabilitation process. From its proper organization also depends on the possibility of complications. For surgery on the spine should be treated with extreme responsibility, because errors in handling can damage the spinal cord, which is very dangerous for the body.

One of the possible negative outcomes after surgery is the appearance of suppuration. Also the screws can come out of the vertebrae improper rehabilitation after surgery.

Problems may arise with the rod. Likely after operational failure of the rod. This is especially dangerous if the bone fusion has not yet occurred. Fixation must be strong and durable, any discrepancies can lead to serious trouble. The spine can become deformed even more than it was. You may also receive severe pain. This will give reason to believe that there were problems in fixing back.

The probability of the occurrence of complications after surgery is greatly reduced if a well-researched plan, and thorough preparation for the procedure. From the experience and professionalism of the doctor also depends on the success of the operation. After fixation, the patient should fulfill all the recommendations given by the physician and planned to pass the rehabilitation period.

• See also: Kyphosis of the spine.

The rehabilitation period

Despite all the possible negative outcomes, the probability of success is quite large, if you compare this technique with others. Error surgeons is minimal and the result can wait no longer. The rehabilitation period in the modern way of operating is also significantly reduced.

Transpedicular fixation of the spine allows for a short time to achieve complete bone healing. After all, compared to other techniques, a year is a very short time for a full recovery. Adhere to rehabilitation after the operation it takes a month. On its expiry you can safely return to normal life. Rehabilitation involves wearing a corset, exercise and reducing back strain.