Management of thoracic spine dislocation by total vertebrectomy and spine shortening: case report

The study discusses a surgical technique called vertebrectomy, typically reserved for severe spinal deformities that can't be corrected with less invasive methods. It involves removing a vertebra to correct spinal alignment. In this specific case, a 19-year-old male with a thoracic spine fracture-dislocation underwent a posterior vertebrectomy. The procedure involved removing the T8 vertebra, reducing the dislocation, and using instrumentation to stabilize the spine from T4 to T11. The patient showed excellent results during follow-ups regarding alignment, fusion, and rehabilitation program. The posterior approach was favored to avoid complications associated with an anterior approach, especially given the patient's other injuries.

• 1
  Vertebrectomy and spine shortening via a posterior approach can be a good solution for thoracic spine fracture-dislocations, providing deformity correction and spinal stability.
• 2
  The posterior approach minimizes blood loss and avoids potential respiratory complications, particularly beneficial in individuals with pre-existing conditions or injuries.
• 3
  Achieving direct bone contact between vertebral endplates promotes better fusion and a stronger biomechanical construct.