Cortical allografts in spinal tuberculosis.

One-hundred-twenty-three patients with neurological deficit due to spinal tuberculosis underwent anterior spinal decompression and anterior column reconstruction with fresh-frozen femoral allograft. Fifty-two patients with a follow-up of more than 5 years were evaluated to assess the incorporation and the efficacy of allograft in maintaining correction. The allograft was incorporated in 49 patients at a mean follow-up of 6.5 (5.3-8.2) years. Complete neurological recovery occurred in 39 patients. The mean pre-operative kyphosis of 37 degrees (15 degrees -67 degrees ) was corrected to 18 degrees (5 degrees -45 degrees ). Fresh-frozen allografts are a suitable alternative to autologous rib and iliac crest grafts in the treatment of spinal tuberculosis.