BURST FRACTURES OF THE 5TH LUMBAR VERTEBRA

Eleven patients with burst fractures of the fifth lumbar vertebra were reviewed. The results of nonoperative treatment were compared with th at of immediate surgery and stabilization with pedicle screw fixation. Five patients were treated nonoperatively and six patients underwent pedicle screw instrumentation and spinal fusion. Five patients had neu rologic injury associated with their L5 burst fracture. Nonoperative t reatment yielded excellent results in young patients with minimal cana l compromise. Neurologic deficits responded more predictably to surgic al decompression than to conservative treatment and internal fixation with pedicle screws restores spinal stability and allows early mobiliz ation.