Modified posterior vertebral column resection for Kümmell disease

RATIONALE Kümmell's disease is defined as delayed traumatic vertebral collapse disease in which patients develop a kyphosis after asymptomatic minor spinal trauma. Both anterior approach and posterior approach have been reported, however, there is no standard treatment for Kümmell's disease. PATIENT CONCERNS We described a successful modified posterior vertebral column resection in a patient with Kümmell's disease. A 65-year-old woman reported persistent back pain for almost three months. DIAGNOSES Kümmell's disease was diagnosed based on computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). INTERVENTIONS Modified posterior vertebral column resection combined with short-segment fixation was designed to treat this disease. OUTCOMES The procedure was successful without any complications. Patient reported that symptoms were obviously improved in one week after operation. LESSONS Modified posterior vertebral column resection combined with short-segment fixation is an effective treatment option for Kümmell's disease.