[Anterior vertebrectomy and plating for spinal tuberculosis].

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of anterior vertebrectomy, bone grafting and plating in the treatment of spinal tuberculosis.

METHODS

Between February 1998 and August 2000, 12 patients with spinal tuberculosis were operated with anterior vertebrectomy, bone grafting and plating. Evaluation including bone fusion rate, correction of deformity and status of spinal lesion was carried out.

RESULTS

In an average of ten months, spinal tuberculosis was completely cured and solid bone fusion had taken place in all 12 patients. The time for bone fusion averaged 5.8 months and the average angle of correction of kyphosis was 16 degrees.

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior plating following vertebrectomy and bone grafting offers a complete removal of lesion and decompression of the spinal canal as well as reconstruction of spinal stability. Early rehabilitation and an increased curative rate can be expected through this procedure.