Minimally invasive solid long segmental fixation combined with direct decompression in patients with spinal metastatic disease

This study seeks to discuss the efficiency of minimally invasive surgery of posterior long segmental fixation plus direct decompression in patients with spinal metastatic tumors. Twenty-five patients received minimally invasive surgery of long segmental fixation combined with direct decompression from posterior approach. Pain and neurologic improvement in these patients pre- and post operation were evaluated by Denis' Pain Scale and Frankel Score, respectively. Seventeen patients (68.0%) showed significant decreases in Denis' Pain score after surgery (p < 0.0001). Paralysis symptoms were improved in nineteen patients (76.0%). The Frankel Score exhibited significant difference between pre-operation and post-operation (p < 0.0001). Operation time and blood loss in this cohort were 324 ± 90 min and 1047 ± 730 ml, respectively. No fatal complications were observed as a result of surgery. In conclusion, minimally invasive surgery of posterior long segmental fixation combined with direct decompression is a safe and efficient strategy to release pain and improve neurological function in patients with spinal metastatic tumors.