A Clinical Analysis of Surgically Managed Primary Spondylitis

수술 치료를 받은 원발성 척추염 환자의 임상적 고찰

Objective : To assess the surgical outcome for patients with primary spondylitis who were treated surgically. Materials and Methods : We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics of 19 patients who underwent surgical treatment from september 1997 to October 1999 in our department. Results : The 19 patients presented 13 tuberculous spondylitis and 6 pyogenic spondylitis. The male to female ratio was 1.4 : 1 and average age 48.4 years(range 15-68 years). The most prevalent location was thoracic region(47%) and paraparesis was frequently seen in patients with middle and lower spinal lesions. Operative approaches were either anterior(13) or posterior(6). All patients with neurologic deficits improved after surgery. Autogenous rib and/or iliac strut bone grafting was performed, followed by spinal instrumentation. Solid bone fusion was obtained in all patients. There was no need for prolongation of duration of antituberculous drug therapy and no increased incidence of secondary infection due to spinal instrumentation. Conclusion : From the results, it may be advised that patients of primary spondylitis who had neurologic deficit should receive an aggressive opeation in their early stage.