Posterior long segment fixation

A4 injuries are axial compression injuries and involve a fracture of the posterior wall of the vertebral body and both the superior and inferior end plates. Due to axial compression forces, vertical fracture of the lamina is usually present and does not indicate a tension band failure.

In cases where neurological deficit is observed and compression of the spinal canal is assumed, decompression has to be performed. It should be understood that this is a step that can also result in deterioration of neurology unless very meticulously performed.
Decompression can be performed anteriorly or posteriorly. Posteriorly, decompression can be indirect or direct. Indirect decompression may be tried before performing direct decompression. Please refer to Decompression techniques for a detailed discussion of indications for the posterior decompression techniques. ( Posterior decompression)

More details on repair of dural laceration can be found here.

The posterior open approach to the midline is used together with the appropriate patient preparation.

Primary reduction is performed by positioning of the patient onto a frame to create lordosis.

Due to the fact that bilateral instrumentation is necessary in all cases, all steps described below are repeated on the opposite side, unless stated otherwise.

In patients with A4 injury at the thoracic level, posterior long segment fixation is performed to provide better reduction forces. Fixation of multiple spinal segments does not affect functionality in the thoracic spine due to the presence of rigid rib cage.

In this technique, pedicle screws are inserted two levels above and below the fractured level on both sides.

This is essential in rotationally unstable injuries where stress on the posterior implants is high. ( Pedicle screw insertion)

The contouring of the rod depends on the site of the fracture. A rod contoured in mild kyphosis is chosen for fractures from T1-T10. A straight or a slightly lordotic rod is chosen for fractures from T11-L1, and a rod contoured to lordosis is chosen for lumbar fractures.

The rod is inserted sequentially, either from distal to proximal or the other way round. The distal screw heads are tightened.

The rod is then inserted into the proximal screw heads without tightening.

Proper rod contouring helps in achieving appropriate sagittal alignment.

If it is decided to perform an indirect decompression, this is done at this stage. If indirect decompression proves to be insufficient, a direct decompression eg, posterior or transpedicular decompression are undertaken. Refer to the Posterior Decompression techniques for detailed instructions. ( Posterior Decompression)

With the help of a distractor, the proximal screws are distracted along the rod. This is done on both sides simultaneously.

The screw heads are tightened with the inner nuts to secure the reduction achieved.

Cross links are applied at the top and bottom of the construct to provide biomechanical stability. In type A injuries one cross link might be sufficient.

The final construct is shown from a lateral view

Although fusion was routinely performed for all spinal fractures, its indications are now being restricted to fractures that are highly unstable.

Nonfusion fixations can be performed for A3, A4, and B1 type injuries.
Fusion is routinely performed for A2, B2, B3, and all C injuries as they are unstable injuries with extensive soft tissue and ligamentous disruption.

For nonfusion surgeries, the facet joint capsule is preserved during the entire procedure.

The screws can be removed after 9 months once the fracture has healed.

Prior to wound closure, intraoperative imaging is performed to check the adequacy of reduction, position, and length of screws and the overall coronal and sagittal spinal alignment.

Patients are made to sit up in the bed on the first day after surgery. Bracing is optional. Patients with intact neurological status are made to stand and walk on the second day after surgery. Patients can be discharged when medically stable or sent to a rehabilitation center if further care is necessary. This depends on the comfort levels and presence of other associated injuries.

Patients are generally followed with periodical x-rays at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Normally, 5-10 degrees of loss of kyphosis can be observed within the first 6 months, which does not affect the functional outcomes. For nonfusion surgeries, the implants can be removed once fusion is confirmed.