[Rationale and complications of the anterior-lateral extrapleural retroperitoneal approach for unstable thoracolumbar fractures: Experience in 86 consecutive patients].

The extrapleural extraperitoneal approach provides solid anterior reconstruction, allows wide decompression of the spinal canal, and permits adequate and long-lasting correction of kyphosis. The rates of infection, construct failure, need for reoperation and vascular or visceral lesions are minimal.