Comparison between bundled multi-segment rib graft and titanium mesh bone graft in the treatment of thoracic and lumbar spinal tuberculosis
Abstract Background: To investigate the two different methods including bone grafting with bundled multi-segment ribs and titanium mesh bone grafting through posterior approach in patients with thoracic and lumbar spinal tuberculosis. Methods: 38 patients with thoracic spinal tuberculosis in our hospital were divided into group A (19 cases of titanium mesh bone grafting) and group B (19 cases of bone grafting with bundled multi-segment ribs). The transverse costal process approach was firstly initiated, then the necrotic tissue of tuberculosis lesions was removed thoroughly. Finally, titanium mesh bone grafting and bone grafting with bundled multi-segment ribs was applied, respectively. Results: The data demonstrated that 12 to 24 months of follow-up revealed that the operation time of Titanium mesh bone grafting in group A was 21.2+2.3 min, and that of bundled rib bone grafting in group B was 7.2+2.4 min. Compared to group A, the time in group B was significantly shorter. The amount of bleeding in group A not distinct from that in group B. There was no significant difference in Cobb angle. The fusion time in the two groups was similar. There was no significant difference in Oswestry dysfunction index between the two groups at the last follow-up. Conclusions: Bone grafting with bundled multi-segment ribs could stable the function quickly after thoracic tuberculosis lesion clearance, indicating as an alternative and development prospects of bone graft strategy.