Percutaneous endoscopic debridement with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for lumbar pyogenic spondylodiscitis: a preliminary study

PURPOSE: To access the feasibility and efficacy of percutaneous endoscopic debridement (PED) combined with percutaneous pedicle screw fixation (PPSF) in the treatment of lumbar pyogenic spondylodiscitis. METHODS: Forty-five patients diagnosed as pyogenic spondylodiscitis underwent PPSF followed by PED. A drainage catheter was left in place for negative pressure drainage. Adequate systematic antibiotics were administered empirically or based on bacterial culture results. Clinical outcomes were assessed by physical examination, regular serologic testing, visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and imaging studies. RESULTS: The mean operative time was 110.1 ± 21.2 minutes (range 80–165 minutes), with intra-operative blood loss 47.8 ± 21.0 ml (range 20–120 ml). All patients reported relief of back pain, able to sit up, and partially ambulate the next day. Causative pathogens were identified in 32 of 45 biopsy specimens, staphylococcal bacteria being the most prevalent strain. However, there were 13 patients with post-operative complications. During 6–12 months’ follow-up, inflammatory markers showed infection controlled. VAS and ODI values were significantly improved. DISCUSSION: Satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes were achieved in our patients post-operatively. It is recommended that PED plus PPSF can be another alternative for spondylodiscitis. CONCLUSION: PED supplementing PPSF offers a valid option in treating spondylodiscitis, as it is minimally invasive, shortens hospital stay, and avoids prolonged bed rest with an optimistic outcome.