Lenke 5C Curves in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Anterior vs Posterior Selective Fusion.

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The optimal treatment of Lenke 5C curves in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is still unclear. To compare the outcomes and the spontaneous correction behavior between anterior and posterior selective fusion techniques in a large case series. Demographic and surgical data for patients with Lenke 5C curves treated with anterior or posterior fusion were collected from July 2002 to September 2011. Clinical assessment and radiographic parameters were compared preoperatively and postoperatively and at a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Fifty-three Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis cases with an average follow-up of 4 years (range, 2-9.6 years) were included. The clinical scores were similar between the 2 groups. Postoperative major thoracic curvature changes were similar. The minor thoracic curve demonstrated a higher spontaneous correction rate in the posterior group. At follow-up, the minor thoracic curve showed a greater loss of correction in the posterior group, and finally both groups were comparable. Surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and complications were comparable. A total of 5 patients had a final thoracic curve larger than the preoperative degrees. Selective fusion of the major thoracolumbar/lumbar curve in Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis can be achieved by anterior and posterior techniques. The spontaneous correction of the unfused thoracic curve was comparable after an average of 4 years follow-up.