Radiological Analysis of Thoracolumbar Junctional Degenerative Kyphosis in Patients with Lumbar Degenerative Kyphosis

Background: Thoracolumbar junction (TLJ) is the transitional area between the lower thoracic spine and the upper lumbar spine. Vertebral compression fractures and proximal junctional kyphosis following spine surgery often occur in this area. Therefore, the study of development and mechanisms of thoracolumbar junctional degeneration is important for planning surgical management. This study aimed to review radiological parameters of thoracolumbar junctional degenerative kyphosis (TLJDK) in patients with lumbar degenerative kyphosis and to analyze compensatory mechanisms of sagittal balance. Methods: From January 2016 to March 2017, patients with lumbar degenerative kyphosis were enrolled in this radiographic study. Patients were divided into two groups according to thoracolumbar junctional angle (TLJA): the non-TLJDK (NTLJDK) group (TLJA