Unilateral posterior vertebral column resection for severe thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity caused by old compressive vertebrae fracture: a technical improvement.

Severe thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity caused by old compressive vertebrae fracture remains a big challenge for spine surgeons. When symptoms related to significant deformities cannot be adequately managed conservatively, posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) is required, but with long operating time and severe blood loss. We develop a UPVCR technique, which is done through a unilateral approach instead of a bilateral approach, vertebral body resection advancing to cross the midline in an abrasive way from an extreme oblique orientation enable the resection of most contralateral vertebral body. In the present study, the effects of UPVCR for severe thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity were investigated. We did find that satisfactory correction of sagittal deformity, functional improvement and pain relief can be achieved by UPVCR, and it has the advantage of shortening surgery time, reducing blood loss and incidence of nerve root impingement over PVCR.