Partial Removal of Spinal Implants for Pain After Posterior Spinal Fusion for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Abstract

Cases: This case report describes 3 patients who developed focal pain and tenderness over prominent spinal implants after posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. All patients elected to proceed with removal of only the symptomatic implants, with good relief of preoperative symptoms. At the latest follow-up, there was no significant change in spinal alignment and all patients had returned to activity. Conclusion: Partial removal of symptomatic implants is a viable option after spinal fusion surgery and can effectively relieve focal pain secondary to implant prominence without progression of spinal deformity.