Background: Vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) often necessitates surgical intervention due to bone loss-induced spinal instability. Anterior column reconstruction, utilizing expandable vertebral body replacement (VBR) implants, is a recognized approach to restore stability and prevent neurological compromise. Despite various techniques, clinical evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of these implants in VO remains limited.
Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis, spanning 2000 to 2020, was conducted on 24 destructive VO cases at a Level 1 orthopedic trauma center. Diagnosis relied on clinical, radiological, and microbiological criteria. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, surgical interventions, and radiological outcomes were assessed.
Results: The study included 24 patients (62.5% male; mean age 65.6 ± 35.0 years), with 58% having healthcare-associated infections (HAVO). The mean radiological follow-up was 137.2 ± 161.7 weeks. Surgical intervention significantly improved the bi-segmental kyphotic endplate angle (BKA) postoperatively (mean -1.4° ± 13.6°). However, a noticeable loss of correction was observed over time. The study reported a mortality rate of 1/24.
Conclusions: Anterior column reconstruction using expandable VBR effectively improved local spinal alignment in destructive VO. However, the study underscores the necessity for prolonged follow-up and continuous research to refine surgical techniques and postoperative care. Addressing long-term complications and refining surgical approaches will be pivotal as the field progresses.
Keywords: anterior column reconstruction; bony fusion rate; expandable vertebral body replacement; spondylodiscitis; vertebral osteomyelitis.