Four-Rod Stabilization of Severely Destabilized Lumbar Spine Caused by Metastatic Tumor. (30th May 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shibuya, Isao; Sairyo, Koichi; Kanamori, Yasuo; Dezawa, Akira
• Other Names: Demetriades A. K. Academic Editor.; Kolb W. Academic Editor.; Rodgers W. B. Academic Editor.; Trč T. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in orthopedics. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-05-30
• Subjects: Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Orthopedics; Orthopedics; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.7
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/254684
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-6749

Abstract

Abstract : We report a case of a 67-year-old female with severely destabilized lumbar spine caused by metastatic malignant tumor. The primary lesion was a thyroid follicular adenocarcinoma. Complete destruction of the L3, L4, and L5 vertebrae had resulted in severe instability, which left the patient with severe back pain and bed-ridden. Since the vertebrae were so severely damaged at 3 levels, 4 rods were used to stabilize the spine. Following stabilization, the pain was alleviated and the patient's quality of life improved. We introduce here the 4-rod technique to stabilize the spine over 3 vertebral levels following severe destruction by metastatic tumor.