Application and biocompatibility of pedicle screws for the internal fixation of thoracolumbar vertebra fracture / 中国组织工程研究

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE:To study the application and development of pedicle screws for the internal fixation of thoracolumbar vertebra fracture and to evaluate the biocompatibility. METHODS:A computer-based online search was conducted in Medline database and CNKI with the OBJECTIVE:To study the application and development of pedicle screws for the internal fixation of thoracolumbar vertebra fracture and to evaluate the biocompatibility. METHODS:A computer-based online search was conducted in Medline database and CNKI with theof "pedicle screws,thoracolumbar,fractures,biocompatibility" in both Chinese and English from 1989 to June 2009. A total of 32 out of 57 articles were included according to inclusion and exclusion criteria to summarize the treatment of thoracolumbar vertebra fracture using pedicle screws and the complication prevention and cure of pedicle screws,and to investigate clinical application,biocompatibility,and prevention of interruption of pedicle screws. RESULTS:Internal fixation of posterior pedicle screws was an effective method to treat thoracolumbar vertebra fracture; however,breakage of pedicle screws was easily caused following internal fixation. Pedicle screws combined with implantation of autogenous bone or artificial materials into cavity of injured vertebra could effectively relieve loosening and interruption of implants; however,the price was expensive. Sufficient bone graft for internal fixation and implant dislodgment following bone fracture healing might effectively prevent interruption of internal fixation device. Pedicle screw intension of stainless steel materials was strong,but the biocompatibility was poor. While,the biocompatibility of titanium materials was great,but the intension was weak,thus the pedicle screws were easily broken. CONCLUSION:Internal fixation of pedicle screws is an effective method to treat thoracolumbar vertebra fracture. However,the biocompatibility still needs to be improved. Titanium pedicle screws have a good biocompatibility but poor intension; however,stainless steel pedicle screws have a good intension but poor biocompatibility.