Perioperative morbidity and mortality in octogenarians sustaining traumatic osteoporotic type 4 and 5 thoracolumbar and lumbar fractures: a retrospective study with 3 years follow-up

PURPOSE: This study aimed to guide the more efficient management of type 4 and 5 thoracolumbar or lumbar osteoporotic fractures (OF) in patients aged 80 years and older with an acute onset of neurological decline. This aim was achieved by assessing the clinical course and morbidity and mortality rates and identifying potential risk factors for patient mortality METHODS: Electronic medical records were retrieved from a single institution pertaining to the period between September 2005 and December 2020. Data on patient demographics, neurological conditions, surgical characteristics, complications, hospital course, and 90-day mortality were also collected. RESULTS: Over a 16-year period, 35 patients aged ≥80 years diagnosed with thoracolumbar and lumbar OF were enrolled in the study. The mean Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) was >6, indicating a poor baseline reserve (9.4 ± 1.9), while cardiovascular diseases were the most prevalent among comorbidities. The mean surgical duration was 231.6 ± 89.3 min, with a mean blood loss of 694.4± 200.3 mL. The in-hospital was 8.6% and 90-day mortality rates at 11.4%. Two patients underwent revision surgery for deep wound infection. Intraoperative and postoperative radiography and computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed correct screw placement. Proper alignment of the thoracolumbar spine was achieved in all the patients. Unique risk factors for mortality included the presence of comorbidities and the occurrence of postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Emergent instrumentation in patients with acute onset of neurological decline and potentially unstable spines due to thoracolumbar and lumbar OF improved functional outcomes at discharge. Age should not be a determinant of whether to perform surgery.