ABSTRACT
Complications related to the surgical treatment of spine fractures can occur during the intraoperative period, as well as the early and late postoperative period. Intraoperative complications include problems associated with particular approaches to the spine used at the time of surgery, issues related to patient positioning on the operating table and neurological deterioration. Postoperative complications fall into four broad categories, including general medical complications, problems related to specific surgical approaches, postoperative infection, and loss of internal fixation. This chapter will review these potential complications and include strategies helpful in both prevention and management of these problems.
