METHODS: In this study of @entity1 who underwent internal fixation without fusion for a burst thoracolumbar or lumbar fracture, we compared the serial changes in the injured @entity1797 ( @entity1797 ), and the fractured vertebral body height (VBH) and kyphotic angle between @entity1 in whom the implants were removed and those in whom they were not. Radiological parameters such as injured @entity1797 , fractured VBH and kyphotic angle were measured. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Greenough low back outcome scale and a VAS scale for @entity158 . RESULTS: Between June 1996 and May 2012, 69 @entity1 were analysed retrospectively; 47 were included in the implant removal group and 22 in the implant retention group. After a mean follow-up of 66 months (48 to 107), eight @entity1 (36.3%) in the implant retention group had screw breakage. There was no screw breakage in the implant removal group. All radiological and functional outcomes were similar between these two groups. Although solid union of the fractured vertebrae was achieved, the kyphotic angle and the anterior third of the injured @entity1797 changed significantly with time (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION: The radiological and functional outcomes of both implant removal and retention were similar. Although screw breakage may occur, the implants may not need to be removed. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Implant removal may not be needed for @entity1 with @entity174 of the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine after fixation without fusion. However, information should be provided beforehand regarding the possibility of screw breakage. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:109-16.

Is removal of the implants needed after fixation of XXXX of the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine without fusion? a retrospective evaluation of radiological and functional outcomes.

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['patients'] @entity1797 :: ('MESH:D055959', 'Disease') :: ['DH', 'disc height'] @entity174 :: ('MESH:D050723', 'Disease') :: ['burst fractures'] @entity158 :: ('MESH:D010146', 'Disease') :: ['pain']
@entity174 :: (MESH:D050723,Disease) :: ['burst fractures']
