Abstract
In this study we retrospectively reviewed nine cases in which posterior spinal shortening with spinous process wiring was used to treat an osteoporotic vertebral fracture. The average age at surgery was 76 (64-85) years. T12 was collapsed in two patients, T12 and L1 in three, L1 in two, L2 in one, and L3 in one. All patients complained of neurological deficit. Five were unable to walk, and the other four were unable to walk without a cane. The average follow-up period was 17 months after surgery. Local kyphosis was 26.6 degrees preoperatively, 8.9 degrees postoperatively, and 21.4 degrees at the most recent follow-up examination. There were two cases of postoperative complication : one of intervertebral pseudoarthrosis, and the other deep wound infection. All patients obtained significant relief from neurological deficit ; three could walk without a cane, and the other six with a cane.
