Unconventional Fixation of Thoracolumbar Fractures using Round Hole Bone Plates and Transpedicular Screws

In an attempt to contain the high cost of commercially available pedicle screw systems, several authors have used unconventional alternatives such as locally made plates or dynamic compression plates (DCP) along with cancellous screws for transpedicular fixation of the thoracolumbar spine. These plates, however, allow for a wide range of motion at the plate-screw interphase and the construct does not provide stability in the sagittal plane. Round hole bone plates, on the other hand, allow much less mobility at the plate-screw interphase and the final construct offers better stability in the sagittal plane. Our objective was to determine the clinical, radiologic, and functional status of patients who underwent posterior fracture fixation using round hole bone plates and cancellous screws, and evaluate the construct's ability to maintain reduction of the fracture.