Video-assisted techniques in the management of thoracolumbar fractures.

The thoracolumbar junction is the most common region of the spine to be affected by injuries. Acute instability with structural damage to the anterior load-bearing spinal column and posttraumatic deformity represent the most frequent indications for surgery. A standardized operating technique with instruments and implants specially developed for the endoscopic procedure, ranging from an angled, stable plate and screw implant to endoscopically implantable vertebral body replacements, have gradually opened up the entire spectrum of anterior spine surgery to endoscopic techniques at the thoracolumbar junction.