Surgical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis and juvenile kyphosis

Abstract

Indication for operative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis and juvenile kyphosis is mainly cosmetic. There is also a higher incidence of pain in scoliosis patients, and reduced pulmonary function in severe deformity, especially in severe deformities present at the age of 5 years (early onset). Scoliotic curves of less than 30 degrees will not progress in adults, whereas curves of 50-75 degrees will further progress a mean of 25 degrees during 40 years. Progression in adults with juvenile kyphosis is not well documented. Operative treatment aims to stop progression, to control spinal growth, or to perform correction and fusion by spinal instrumentation and bone grafts. These goals can be achieved either by an anterior, a posterior, or a combined approach. Correction principles are compression, distraction, derotation and translation. The forces applied by correction are transferred by fixation devices (pedicle screws, anterior screws, hooks, sublaminar wires) to the spine. The higher correction forces are, the higher is the correction achieved, but also the risk of fracture and torn out implants. Mobilisation reduces rigidity and allows to achieve a better correction with equal forces. The best mobilisation techniques are disc excision, facet joint removal, and techniques to mobilise the thorax.