Upper instrumented level selection in adult deformity surgery

Abstract

Adult spinal deformity can be a challenging entity to treat surgically. Determining where to place the upper instrumented level in the fusion construct has been an area of great interest within the research community as well as in practice. There are multiple factors that need to be taken into account including the individual patient's anatomy, radiographic parameters, surgical techniques, and cervicothoracic or thoracolumbar junctional levels when determining where to end a fusion. Considering these aspects will decrease the risk of complications at this level post-operatively.