Internal fixation with dynamic compression plate is an accepted method of treating diaphyseal The treatment of stable bursting fracture of thoracolumbar spine has long been controversal and middle column theory has been known important factor to determine fracture stability, following to "Three column theroy" by Denis & McAfee in 1983.

We have analyBed kyphotic angle and compression degree, each 7 cases of thoracolumbar stable bursting fracture, treated consertive or operative, from Oct. 1993 to Dec. 1994.

We obtained following results;

1. The correction of kyphotic angle was more increased in the average 12 in conservative treatment and decreased in the average 8.3 in operative treatment than admission date.

2. The correction of compression degree was more increased in the average 30% in conservative treatment and decreased in the average 18% in operative treatment.

3. More severe deformity was noted in the active young adult rather than old age.

4. MRI study and bending stress view are needed in the detect of the posterior column injury.

In summary, more severe deformity was noted not only in the adult, but in the conservative treatment. Thus, we must consider the operative treatment in active young adult in cases of stable bursting fracture.