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Paraplegic Rehabilitation in South Africa

Surgery

Surgical Procedure

On Nov 23 an open reduction with a Harrington compression was done from T12 to L1 with a bone graft.

Harrington Rod Compression

Paul Harrington introduced the Harrington rods in 1949 for the treatment of postpolio scoliosis. Since then, their use has expanded to include destabilizing cases of tumor, fracture, and fracture dislocation of the thoracic and lumbar spine (Riebel, 1993).

The primary principles of Harrington rod stabilization in treating spinal traumatic spinal deformities are to improve alignment, provide stability, allow earlier rehabilitation, and prevent late deformity. The rod acts as an internal splint, reducing the dependence on external forms of immobilization.

Harrington rod compression is used for dislocations, which once reduced, are held in place with hooks facing inwards, i.e., in compression. Reverse rachet rods are required and they maintain reduction by acting as a tension band. This procedure is only done for complete spinal cord injuries as it may deteriorate the conditions in incomplete spinal cord lesions.

Early stable fixation allows earlier mobilization of the patient with a spine injury, which reduces the complications of bed rest and reduces length of stay.

The primary aim at the initial stage of management was stabilization of the spine to prevent neurological deterioration.