Anterior Posterior Spinal Fusion Research Articles

A comparison of dysphagia rates between long-segment anterior versus posterior cervical fusion.

The goal of this study was to compare rates of dysphagia and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) following long-segment (≥ 3 levels) anterior cervical spinal fusion (ACF) and posterior cervical spinal fusion (PCF) at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. PROs were also compared for patients with dysphagia versus those without dysphagia. A prospectively collected quality improvement database was used to identify patients who had a long-segment cervical spinal fusion. Cohorts were divided into ACF and PCF groups. Eating Assessment Tool-10 scores and PROs were obtained for all patients preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively to compare. Multivariate analysis was also performed to evaluate risk factors for dysphagia. A total of 132 patients met the inclusion criteria, 77 of whom had undergone ACF and 55 of whom had undergone PCF. Dysphagia rates between ACF and PCF cohorts were similar at baseline (13.0% vs 18.2%, p = 0.4). New-onset dysphagia rates were also comparable at 3-month follow-up (39.7% vs 23.1%, p = 0.08) and 12-month follow-up (32.6% vs 32.4%, p > 0.99). Patients who underwent PCF had worse Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores at 3 months than did patients with ACF (13.67 ± 9.49 vs 10.55 ± 6.24, respectively; p = 0.03). There were significantly higher NDI scores for patients with dysphagia at 3 months in both the ACF and PCF groups and at 12 months for those in the PCF group. Analogously, EuroQol-5 Dimensions scores were worse for patients with dysphagia; however, this was only significant for patients in the ACF group at 3 months. There were no significant risk factors for the development of dysphagia found on multivariate analysis. Similar rates and severity of dysphagia were seen following ACF and PCF at 3- and 12-month follow-up. This suggests that long-term dysphagia following cervical fusion surgery may be due to structural changes from the fusion rather than the surgical approach. However, the ACF cohort was significantly younger, and this may have partially accounted for the findings. PROs were also compared for patients with and without dysphagia, demonstrating worsened outcomes in some domains for patients who presented with dysphagia at 3- and 12-month follow-up. This suggests that dysphagia may be associated with a decreased quality of life after cervical fusion.

Surgical Treatment Outcomes of Anterior-Only Correction and Reconstruction for Severe Cervical Kyphotic Deformity with Neurofibromatosis-1: A Retrospective Study with a 5-Year Follow-Up.

Currently, anterior-only (AO), posterior-only, and combined anterior-posterior spinal fusions are common strategies for treating cervical kyphosis in patients with neurofibromatosis-1 NF-1. Nevertheless, the choice of surgical strategy remains a topic of controversy. The aim of our study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of anterior decompression and spinal reconstruction for the treatment of cervical kyphosis in patients with NF-1. Twelve patients with NF-1-associated cervical kyphotic deformity were reviewed retrospectively between January 2010 and April 2020. All patients underwent AO correction and reconstruction. The X-ray was followed up in all these patients to assess the preoperative and postoperative local kyphosis angle (LKA), the global kyphosis angle (GKA), the sagittal vertical axis, and the T1 slope. The visual analog scale score, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, and neck disability index (NDI) score were used to evaluate the improvement inclinical symptoms. The results of the difference in improvement from preoperatively to the final follow-up assessment were assessed using a paired t-test or Mann-Whitney U-test. The LKA and GKA decreased from the preoperative average of 64.42 (range, 38-86) and 35.50 (range, 10-81) to an average of 16.83 (range, -2 to 46) and 4.25 (range, -22 to 39) postoperatively, respectively. The average correction rates of the LKA and GKA were 76.11% and 111.97%, respectively. All patients had achieved satisfactory relief of neurological symptoms (p < 0.01). JOA scores were improved from 10.42 (range, 8-16) preoperatively to 15.25 (range, 11-18) at final follow-up (p < 0.01). NDI scores were decreased from an average of 23.25 (range, 16-34) preoperatively to an average of 7.08 (range, 3-15) at the final follow-up (p < 0.01). Anterior-only correction and reconstruction is a safe and effective method for correcting cervical kyphosis in NF-1 patients. In fixed cervical kyphosis cases, preoperative skull traction should also be considered.

Evaluating the Readability of Patient Education Materials for Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering, Distraction-Based Methods, and Posterior Spinal Fusion for the Treatment of Pediatric Spinal Deformity.

The Internet is an important source of information for patients, but its effectiveness relies on the readability of its content. Patient education materials (PEMs) should be written at or below a sixth-grade reading level as outlined by agencies such as the American Medical Association. This study assessed PEMs' readability for the novel anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT), distraction-based methods, and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) in treating pediatric spinal deformity. An online search identified PEMs using the terms "anterior vertebral body tethering," "growing rods scoliosis," and "posterior spinal fusion pediatric scoliosis." We selected the first 20 general medical websites (GMWs) and 10 academic health institution websites (AHIWs) discussing each treatment (90 websites total). Readability tests for each webpage were conducted using Readability Studio software. Reading grade levels (RGLs), which correspond to the US grade at which one is expected to comprehend the text, were calculated for sources and independent t tests compared with RGLs between treatment types. The mean RGL was 12.1 ± 2.0. No articles were below a sixth-grade reading level, with only 2.2% at the sixth-grade reading level. AVBT articles had a higher RGL than distraction-based methods (12.7 ± 1.6 vs 11.9 ± 1.9, P = 0.082) and PSF (12.7 ± 1.6 vs 11.6 ± 2.3, P = 0.032). Materials for distraction-based methods and PSF were comparable (11.9 ± 1.9 vs 11.6 ± 2.3, P = 0.566). Among GMWs, AVBT materials had a higher RGL than distraction-based methods (12.9 ± 1.4 vs 12.1 ± 1.8, P = 0.133) and PSF (12.9 ± 1.4 vs 11.4 ± 2.4, P = 0.016). Patients' health literacy is important for shared decision-making. Assessing the readability of scoliosis treatment PEMs guides physicians when sharing resources and discussing treatment with patients. Both GMWs and AHIWs exceed recommended RGLs, which may limit patient and parent understanding. Within GMWs, AVBT materials are written at a higher RGL than other treatments, which may hinder informed decision-making and patient outcomes. Efforts should be made to create online resources at the appropriate RGL. At the very least, patients and parents may be directed toward AHIWs; RGLs are more consistent.

Early outcomes in hybrid fixation for idiopathic scoliosis: posterior fusion combined with anterior vertebral body tethering. Patient series.

Anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) are options for patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Combining both procedures in patients with double curves, a procedure in which PSF is performed for the thoracic curve and AVBT for the lumbar curve, provides maximal correction of the thoracic curve with a theoretical maintenance of motion in the lumbar spine. The authors retrospectively reviewed 20 skeletally immature patients diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis at a single institution with an average age of 12.7 ± 1.6 years and who had undergone hybrid treatment with an average follow-up of 8 months. The PSF procedures averaged 276 ± 63 minutes with 442.8 ± 295 mL of blood loss, and the AVBT averaged 275 ± 54 minutes with 118.3 ± 80 mL of blood loss. Following the hybrid correction, the thoracic and lumbar coronal curve angles improved from 67.6° to 21.6° and from 65.2° to 24°, respectively. The three-dimensional kyphosis improved from 3.3° to 24°. A combined approach of PSF and AVBT is safe and effective for idiopathic scoliosis. This approach combines the gold standard of thoracic fusion with the motion preservation benefits of AVBT in the lumbar spine. This study will continue to refine indications for AVBT.

Anterior Dynamic Versus Posterior Transpedicular Spinal Fusion for Lenke Type 5 Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Comparison of Long-term Results

Background. Despite the active implementation of dynamic correction in case of idiopathic scoliosis, there are no comparative studies of results of posterior and anterior dynamic correction in patients with completed and near-completed growth.&#x0D; Aim of the study to compare clinical and radiological results of anterior dynamic correction and conventional posterior transpedicular correction of Lenke type 5 scoliotic defonnities in patients with completed or near-completed growth.&#x0D; Methods. Eighty-six patients with Lenke type 5 scoliotic deformities were enrolled in the study. The first group (54 patients) underwent deformity correction via posterior approach using a rigid transpedicular system; the second group (32 patients) using dynamic correction system. Mean patients age was 22.612.8 and 27.310.9 years, respectively. We studied radiological data before surgery, immediately after surgery, and 2 or more years after surgery. Blood loss volume, duration of hospital stay, and duration of narcotic analgesics intake in the early postoperative period were analyzed. Functional results were assessed using SRS-22 questionnaire.&#x0D; Results. Preoperative Cobb angle in the first group was 65.5, and 27.5 at the long-term follow-up. Junctional kyphosis of T10-L2 before surgery was 21.0 and 13.2 at the long-term follow-up. Preoperative Cobb angle of the initial curve in the second group was 52.5 and 24.5 at the long-term follow-up. Junctional kyphosis of T10-L2 before surgery was 19.5, and 19.0 at the long-term follow-up. Nash and Moe apical vertebral rotation in the first group before surgery was 1.62 and 0.17 at the last follow-up; in the second group, it was 1.80 and 0.81, respectively. Mean number of fixed levels was 6.41.0 in the first group and 5.61.5 in the second group. Mobility of the thoracolumbar/lumbai curve was higher in the second group, 28.29.1, compared with 36.0 7.2 in the first group. Preoperatively, lumbar lordosis in the second group was 42.5, in the long-tenn period 43.5, and in the first group 43.4 and 44.3, respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion. Both posterior rigid and anterior dynamic correction in case of Lenke type 5 idiopathic scoliosis can provide satisfactory radiological results with initially similar thoracolumbar deformities in patients with completed or nearcompleted growth. However, dynamic approach can reduce blood loss, duration of hospital stay, duration of narcotic analgesics intake after surgery, and improve quality of life in the long-term period.

Assessing Treatment of Floating Lateral Mass (FLM) Fractures of the Subaxial Cervical Spine.

Retrospective cohort. The purpose of the study was to evaluate differences across surgical approaches (anterior, posterior, or combined anterior-posterior) in terms of outcomes following treatment for floating lateral mass (FLM) fractures. Furthermore, we sought to determine whether operative approach to FLM fracture treatment remains superior to nonoperative treatment in terms of clinical outcomes. FLM fractures of the subaxial cervical spine involves separation of the lateral mass from the vertebrae via a disruption of both the lamina and pedicle, resulting in a disconnection of the superior and inferior articular processes. This subset of cervical spine fractures is highly unstable, making proper treatment selection of great importance. In this single-center, retrospective study, we identified patients meeting the definition of an FLM fracture. Radiological imaging from the date of injury was reviewed to ensure presence this injury pattern. Treatment course was assessed to determine nonoperative versus operative treatment. Operative treatment was divided into patients who underwent anterior, posterior, or combined anterior-posterior spinal fusion. We then reviewed postoperative complications among each of the subgroups. Forty-five patients were determined to have a FLM fracture over a 10-year span. The nonoperative group had n=25, and evidently, there were no patients that crossed over to surgery due to subluxation of the cervical spine after nonoperative treatment. The operative treatment group had n=20, and consisted of 6 anterior, 12 posterior, and 2 combined approaches. Complications appeared in posterior and combined groups. Two hardware failures were noted in the posterior group, along with two postoperative respiratory complications in the combined group. No complications were observed for the anterior group. None of the nonoperative patients in this study required further operation or management of their injury, indicating nonoperative treatment as a potentially satisfactory management for appropriately selected FLM fractures.

RETROSPECTIVE MATCHED COMPARISON STUDY ON NON FUSION ANTERIOR SCOLIOSIS CORRECTION (NFASC) VERSUS POSTERIOR SPINAL FUSION (PSF) FOR LENKE 5 ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS (AIS) CURVES IN SKELETALLY MATURE CHILDREN: CLINICO-RADIOLOGICAL OUTCOMES WITH TWO YEARS’ FOLLOW-UP

The current study aims to compare the clinico radiological outcomes between Non-Fusion Anterior Scoliosis (NFASC) Correction and Posterior Spinal Fusion (PSF) for Lenke 5 curves at 2 years follow up.Methods:38 consecutive Lenke 5 AIS patients treated by a single surgeon with NFASC (group A) or PSF (group B) were matched by age, Cobb's angle, and skeletal maturity. Intraoperative blood loss, operative time, LOS, coronal Cobbs, and SRS22 scores at 2 years were compared. Flexibility was assessed by modified Schober's test. Continuous variables were compared using student t-tests and categorical variables were compared using chi-square.The cohort included 19 patients each in group A and B . Group A had M:F distribution of 1:18 while group B had 2:17. The mean age in group A and group B were 14.8±2.9 and 15.3±3.1 years respectively. The mean follow-up of patients in groups A and B were 24.5±1.8 months and 27.4±2.1 months respectively. Mean pre-op thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) cobbs for group A and group B were 55°±7° and 57.5°±8° respectively. At two years follow up, the cobbs for group A and B were 18.2°±3.6° and 17.6°±3.5° respectively (p=0.09). The average operating time for groups A and B were 169±14.2 mins and 219±20.5 mins respectively (p&lt;0.05). The average blood loss of groups A and B were 105.3±15.4 and 325.3±120.4 respectively (p&lt;0.05). The average number of instrumented vertebra between groups A and B were 6.2 and 8.5 respectively (p&lt;0.05). The average LOS for NFASC and PSF was 3.3±0.9 days and 4.3±1.1 days respectively (p&lt;0.05). No statistically significant difference in SRS 22 score was noted between the two groups. No complications were recorded.Our study shows no significant difference in PSF and NFASC in terms of Cobbs correction and SRS scores, but the NFASC group had significantly reduced blood loss, operative time, and fewer instrumented levels. NFASC is an effective alternative technique to fusion to correct and stabilize Lenke 5 AIS curves with preservation of spinal motion.

Surgical Treatment of Scoliosis Lenke Type 5, Anterior Versus Posterior, Which Approach is Better?: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Systematic review and meta-analysis. This study aimed to compare the radiographical and clinical outcomes between anterior spinal fusion (ASF) and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) in Lenke type 5 adolescence idiopathic scoliosis. PSF has been the standard operation for adolescence idiopathic scoliosis. ASF can also achieve a good curve correction effect with fewer fusion segments and minor invasion of paraspinal structures. A systematic literature research was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Use meta-analysis to compare the changes of thoracolumbar/lumbar and thoracic curves and other important outcomes between ASF and PSF. A total of 427 ASF and 392 PSF patients from 12 studies were included. There was no significant difference in the correction degree of thoracolumbar/lumbar and thoracic curve between ASF and PSF ( P >0.05), except for PSF had more compensatory correction degree of thoracic curve at postoperation ( P <0.05). Besides, the loss of correction in thoracic curve in PSF at the last follow-up was significantly less than that in ASF ( P <0.05). PSF presented larger change values of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis at the last follow-up ( P <0.05). PSF showed a better effect in correcting trunk shift distance at the postoperation ( P <0.05) but less trunk shift distance correction from postoperation to last follow-up ( P <0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis and estimated blood loss between the two approaches ( P >0.05). Moreover, ASF showed fewer fusion segments, but longer operation and hospital stay time ( P <0.05). ASF is capable of achieving similar correction in coronal curve and balance as PSF with fewer fusion segments. Spine surgeons should select an appropriate approach tailored to individual patients needs while considering procedural risks and benefits. Level II.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Does Anterior-Posterior Spinal Fusion Still have a Role in Severe Thoracic Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

Debate exists as to whether anterior-posterior spinal fusion (APSF), rather than posterior-only spinal fusion (PSF), provides benefit for treating severe thoracic adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). This systematic review and meta-analysis compare (1) Cobb angle correction, (2) complication and reoperation rate, (3) pulmonary function, (4) number of fused segments, and 5) patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in both groups. Electronic databases were searched to identify studies that met the following inclusion criteria: comparative studies (level 3 or above), severe thoracic curves (≥ 70°), age ≤ 16, AIS aetiology, Lenke 1-4 curves and follow-up ≥ 1year for ≥ 95% of patient population. Literature was graded for quality and bias using GRADE and MINORS criteria. Eight studies were included, defined by GRADE as low or moderate level evidence. Three studies showed superior curve correction in the APSF group; however, the meta-analysis showed no significant difference in curve correction between groups (95% CI - 3.45-12.96, P = 0.26). There were more complications in the APSF group, without statistical significance (95% CI 0.53-3.39, P = 0.54; I 2 = 0%, P = 0.78). There were no re-operations in either group. Two studies reported pulmonary function; one showed better function in the APSF group, the other better function in the PSF group. One study showed fewer fused segments in the APSF group, however, no significance was observed in the meta-analysis (95%CI - 1.65-0.31, P = 0.18). Three studies reported PROMs with no differences reported between groups. APSF and PSF have been found to have comparable results. The present evidence cannot support recommendations for guidelines on future practice with regards to effect on curve correction, complications, re-operations, pulmonary function or PROMs. Level III, Systematic review of Level-III studies.

Anterior versus posterior approach in Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a comparison of long-term follow-up outcomes.

BackgroundAfter surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), doctors should not only focus on the short-term surgical effect, but also pay special attention to whether the patients can live normally in the long-term. This work compared the long-term effects of thoracoscopy-assisted anterior spinal fusion (ASF) and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) in AIS.MethodsTwenty-two patients underwent thoracoscopy-assisted ASF, and twenty-three patients underwent PSF from 2004 to 2009 were involved , including 14 males and 31 females with an average age of 14.8±2.6 years, and all patients suffered from only Lenke type 1 AIS. The mean follow-up time was 102 months, the radiographic parameters and operation time, hospitalization time, fusion segments and estimated blood loss were evaluated. Comparisons between groups were made such as Cobb’s angle, thoracic kyphosis, the instrumented levels, curve correction, preoperative parameters, SF-36/SRS-22 questionnaire scores, and pulmonary function.ResultsThere was no significant difference in age, gender, Risser sign and follow-up period between two groups. The instrumentation level had an average of 6 in the thoracoscopy-assisted ASF group and 9.7 in the PSF group (P<0.001). The average correction rate of the main curve was 67.4% in ASF group versus 79.2% in PSF group (P>0.05). The postoperative thoracic kyphosis was 16.2°±3.9° in ASF group and 25.6°±4.4° in PSF group (P=0.023). Patients had momentous advancement in self-image, vitality and mental health in the SRS-22 and SF-36 questionnaires. Compared to preoperatively, the pulmonary function of both groups was satisfactorily improved at the final follow-up.ConclusionsSince there was no statistically significant difference in the general conditions of the two groups selected for this study, so we finally concluded that thoracoscopy-assisted ASF had a satisfactory correction rate, famous long-term radiography outcomes and desirable pulmonary function results. However, compared to PSF, it has a longer operation time, a more complicated surgical procedure and a weaker three-dimensional correction effect, and PSF has affirmative long-term outcomes, fewer complications, and satisfactory sagittal balance, all of which make PSF the standard operation to treat AIS.

Usefulness of the Round Endcap Expandable Cage Placed on the Vertebral Ring Apophysis in Anterior Spinal Reconstruction

Rectangular endcap expandable cages are common in anterior thoracolumbar spine restoration. However, the cage is often too large to place in small, elderly women. In this study, we evaluated a method to place a round endcap expandable cage on the vertebral ring apophysis in elderly women. From April 2017 to August 2020, five women (mean age 75.8 years) underwent anterior-posterior spinal fusion with a round endcap expandable cage on the vertebral ring apophysis at the thoracolumbar junction. The local kyphotic angle, coronal Cobb angle, and intervertebral height were evaluated pre-and postoperatively. Cage subsidence and bone union were evaluated. The mean local kyphotic angle, coronal Cobb angle, and intervertebral height before surgery were 35.2°, 10.0°, and 65.3 mm, respectively. Immediately postoperatively, 1 week and 3 weeks after surgery, the kyphotic angle was 13.4°, 16.6°, and 18.5°; coronal Cobb angle was 2.8°, 2.2°, and 4.3°; and intervertebral height was 76.2 mm, 71.8 mm, and 70.6 mm. Cage subsidence was not observed and the bone union was achieved in all cases. An expandable cage with a round endcap was placed in small, elderly women by inserting the cage over the strong apophysis of the vertebral body. This technique may be useful to reduce the risk of postoperative subsidence and correction loss.

Correction to: Anterior versus posterior spinal fusion for Lenke type 5 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies

PURPOSE To review and compare clinical and radiologic outcomes between anterior spinal fusion (ASF) and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for the treatment of Lenke type 5 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). METHODS A systematic review was performed according to Preferred reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. All level I-III evidence studies investigating the clinical and radiologic outcomes of ASF and PSF for the treatment of Lenke type 5 AIS were included. RESULTS Nine studies (285 ASF patients, 298 PSF patients) were included. ASF was associated with a significantly lower number of levels fused compared with PSF (p < 0.01) with similar immediate and long-term coronal deformity correction (p = 0.16; p = 0.12, respectively). PSF achieved a better correction of thoracic hypokyphosis in one study and lumbar hypolordosis in three studies. PSF was associated with a significant shorter length of stay (LOS) compared with ASF (p < 0.01). One long-term study demonstrated a significantly higher rate of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) with PSF compared with ASF. There were no significant differences in major complication or re-operation rates. CONCLUSION For the treatment of Lenke type 5 AIS, there is moderate evidence to suggest that ASF requires a lower number of instrumented levels to achieve similar immediate and long-term coronal deformity correction compared with PSF. There is some evidence to suggest that PSF may achieve better thoracic and lumbar sagittal deformity correction compared with ASF. There is some evidence to suggest a higher incidence of PJK at long-term follow-up with PSF compared with ASF. ASF is associated with a longer post-operative LOS compared with PSF.

Halo traction combined with posterior-only approach correction for cervical kyphosis with Neurofibromatosis-1: minimum 2\u2009years follow-up

BackgroundSurgical management of cervical kyphosis in patients with NF-1 is a challenging task. Presently, anterior-only (AO), posterior-only (PO) and combined anterior-posterior (AP) spinal fusion are common surgical strategies. However, the choice of surgical strategy and application of Halo traction remain controversial. Few studies have shown and recommended posterior-only approach for cervical kyphosis correction in patients with NF-1. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and the effectiveness of halo Traction combined with posterior-only approach correction for treatment of cervical kyphosis with NF-1.MethodsTwenty-six patients with severe cervical kyphosis due to NF-1 were reviewed retrospectively between January 2010 and April 2018. All the cases underwent halo traction combined with posterior instrumentation and fusion surgery. Correction result, neurologic status and complications were analyzed.ResultsIn this study, cervical kyphosis Cobb angle decreased from initial 61.3 ± 19.7 degrees to postoperative 10.6 ± 3.7 degrees (P<0.01), with total correction rate of 82.7%, which consist of 45.8% from halo traction and 36.9% from surgical correction. JOA scores were improved from preoperative 13.3 ± 1.6 to postoperative 16.2 ± 0.7 (P<0.01). Neurological status was also improved. There was no correction loss and the neurological status was stable in mean 43 months follow-up. Three patients experienced minor complications and one patient underwent a second surgery.ConclusionHalo traction combined with PO approach surgery is safe and effective method for cervical kyphosis correction in patients with NF-1. A satisfied correction result, and successful bone fusion can be achieved via this procedure, even improvement of neurological deficits can also be obtained. Our study suggested that halo traction combined with PO approach surgery is another consideration for cervical kyphosis correction in patients with NF-1.

Anterior versus posterior spinal fusion for Lenke type 5 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies.

To review and compare clinical and radiologic outcomes between anterior spinal fusion (ASF) and posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for the treatment of Lenke type 5 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). A systematic review was performed according to Preferred reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. All level I-III evidence studies investigating the clinical and radiologic outcomes of ASF and PSF for the treatment of Lenke type 5 AIS were included. Nine studies (285 ASF patients, 298 PSF patients) were included. ASF was associated with a significantly lower number of levels fused compared with PSF (p < 0.01) with similar immediate and long-term coronal deformity correction (p = 0.16; p = 0.12, respectively). PSF achieved a better correction of thoracic hypokyphosis in one study and lumbar hypolordosis in three studies. PSF was associated with a significant shorter length of stay (LOS) compared with ASF (p < 0.01). One long-term study demonstrated a significantly higher rate of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) with PSF compared with ASF. There were no significant differences in major complication or re-operation rates. For the treatment of Lenke type 5 AIS, there is moderate evidence to suggest that ASF requires a lower number of instrumented levels to achieve similar immediate and long-term coronal deformity correction compared with PSF. There is some evidence to suggest that PSF may achieve better thoracic and lumbar sagittal deformity correction compared with ASF. There is some evidence to suggest a higher incidence of PJK at long-term follow-up with PSF compared with ASF. ASF is associated with a longer post-operative LOS compared with PSF.

P62. Outcomes of combined thoracic anterior and lumbar posterior tethering versus posterior spinal fusion

<h3>BACKGROUND CONTEXT</h3> In the treatment of skeletally immature idiopathic scoliosis, outcomes for combined Thoracic Anterior and Lumbar Posterior Tethering (TALPT) and posterior spinal fusion and instrumentation (PSF) have never been compared. <h3>PURPOSE</h3> The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of TALPT with PSF in skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> Retrospective Cohort Study. <h3>PATIENT SAMPLE</h3> Skeletally immature patients with curves of at least 40 degrees with at least two-year follow-up who underwent TALPT or PSF from 2014-2018 were included. <h3>OUTCOME MEASURES</h3> The primary outcome is revision. Secondary outcomes include procedure duration, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of stay (LOS), total postoperative opioid morphine equivalent (OME), foley duration, days to solid food, direct cost and 30-day readmission. <h3>METHODS</h3> In this IRB-approved retrospective cohort study, TALPT and PSF were compared with respect to primary and secondary outcome measures. TALPT patients underwent a single-stage open anterior tethering for the thoracic curve and unilateral posterior tethering on the convexity of the lumbar curve. <h3>RESULTS</h3> Of 104 enrolled patients, 6 (5.8%) underwent TALPT while 98 (94.2%) underwent PSF. There was no significant difference in revision rate between TALPT and PSF (33% vs 11%, p=0.26). TALPT patients had significantly longer ICU length of stay in hours (18.7±18 vs 4.6±19.1, p<0.01), higher direct cost in USD ($68,365±$17,863 vs $50,277±$13,905, p<0.01), and increased postoperative day 0 inpatient OME use (36.2±21.9 vs 12±19, p<0.01). There was no no significant difference in case length, EBL, LOS, foley duration, days to solid food and 30-day readmission (p>0.05). <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> Skeletally immature idiopathic scoliosis patients who undergo TALPT have equivalent two-year revision rates to PSF patients However, TALPT had significantly increased ICU stay, inpatient OME use on postoperative day 0 and direct cost. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> Zimmer Spinal Tether (Not approved for this indication)

Treatment of Kyphosis Arising Secondary to Laminectomy and Irradiation in the Pediatric Population.

The effects of radiation therapy and laminectomy on the growing spine have been well documented. Due to compromised bone quality after irradiation, spinal fusion has a high failure rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate treatment of post-laminectomy and post-irradiation kyphosis in children using a vascularized rib graft (VRG) to augment anterior spinal fusion and posterior spinal fusion. Data were collected retrospectively from electronic medical records for all patients treated at a single institution for post-laminectomy and post-irradiation kyphosis who underwent VRG to augment spinal fusions done between December 2003 and August 2015. Five patients were included in the analysis. Imaging studies were analyzed by 2 senior pediatric orthopedic surgeons and a pediatric orthopedic surgery fellow. The outcome for all 5 patients who underwent VRG were considered successful at most recent clinical follow-up. Success was defined as the following: complete fusion evident through computed tomography scan, no implant failure, and no kyphosis progression. Follow-up ranged from 21 to 63 months. One patient experienced 2 complications: esophageal tear and deep infection. Spinal fusion with a VRG is a viable treatment option for children who have developed kyphosis following laminectomy and irradiation. On long-term follow-up, there has been no evidence of progression of kyphosis for patients who were treated with VRG in either the primary fusion procedure or in subsequent revision procedures. A VRG provides a non-irradiated, vascularized bone graft to bridge the irradiated segments, increasing the stability of the spine. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(4):e563-e569.].

Combined Anterior-Posterior Versus Posterior-only Spinal Fusion in Treating Dystrophic Neurofibromatosis Scoliosis With Modern Instrumentation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis study. To compare the efficacy, long-term stability, and safety of combined anterior-posterior spinal fusion (APSF) with posterior-only spinal fusion (PSF) in treating dystrophic neurofibromatosis scoliosis with the use of modern instrumentation. When the Harrington or Luque technique was used, APSF had relatively reliable results and had been recommended by many authors. But with the development of instrumentation and techniques, many surgeons performed PSF with satisfactory results. No systematic review and meta-analysis have been conducted to compare the outcomes of the 2 approaches. Relevant studies on anterior-posterior or posterior fusion of dystrophic neurofibromatosis scoliosis were retrieved from the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Springer Link, and Google Scholar databases. Then studies were manually selected for inclusion based on predefined criteria. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted, and a systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. Sixteen eligible studies were included. The angles of scoliosis curves and kyphosis curves were significantly and similarly corrected after surgery in both APSF and PSF group, respectively. At the last follow-up, the loss of correction was significant in the coronal plane but not in the sagittal plane with a similar progression of scoliosis in 2 groups. The overall complication rate was slightly higher in the APSF group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Meanwhile, there was no visible difference in the incidence of pseudarthrosis and instrumentation failures between the 2 groups. APSF and PSF by means of the third-generation spinal instrumentation system have similar efficacy, long-term stability, and safety for treating dystrophic scoliosis secondary to type-1 neurofibromatosis. Level III-systematic review and meta-analysis study.

One stage or two? A cohort analysis of anterior-posterior spinal fusions for severe pediatric scoliosis.

Retrospective case-series study of prospectively collected data. We sought to identify the differences in outcomes between one-stage (single surgical episode) and two-stage (separate day) anterior and posterior spinal fusion and segmental spinal instrumentation surgeries in severe non-idiopathic and idiopathic scoliosis cases. Patients with severe pediatric spine deformity may require combined anterior and posterior fusion procedures. Given their increased complexity and morbidity, surgeons may consider staging these procedures on separate days. A retrospective cohort study was performed on a prospective Pediatric Spine Database. Patients 21years of age or under with pediatric scoliosis who underwent primary anterior and posterior spinal deformity correction surgery either through a one-stage or planned two-stage sequence with greater than 2-year follow-up were included. Differences in demographics, comorbidities, surgical details, perioperative morbidity, complications, and outcomes were assessed based on scoliosis etiology. Multivariate models were utilized to control for confounders. There were 70 non-idiopathic (14 two-stage vs. 56 one-stage) and 65 idiopathic scoliosis (8 two-stage vs. 57 one-stage) patients. Mean follow-up was 90.1 ± 54.7months. In non-idiopathic scoliosis patients, two-stage surgery was independently associated with a 140-min increased surgical time (95% confidence interval: 52-229min, p = 0.002) and an 8.2-day (95% confidence interval: 2.3-14.1days, p = 0.007) increased hospital length of stay. In idiopathic scoliosis patients, two-stage surgery was independently associated with a 2108ml increase in crystalloid use (95% confidence interval: 834-3381ml p = 0.002) and a 5.3-day increased hospital length of stay (95% confidence interval: 4.0-6.5days, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in blood loss, transfusions, complications, or post-operative curves on multivariate analysis between one-stage and two-stage surgery cohorts in either non-idiopathic or idiopathic scoliosis patient groups. Two-stage surgery was associated with increased crystalloid use in idiopathic scoliosis patients and longer operative times in non-idiopathic scoliosis patients, and longer hospital length of stay in both populations, without significant difference in complications or deformity correction. In the appropriate patient, one-stage anterior-posterior scoliosis surgery may be preferable to two-stage surgery. Level III Retrospective Comparative Study.

Anterior and Posterior Fusion for Large, Rigid Idiopathic Scoliosis: Does Implant Density Matter?

Despite advancements in surgical techniques, controversy remains regarding the optimal implant density for the correction of idiopathic scoliosis. Recent evidence has suggested that equivalent radiographic and clinical outcomes can be achieved with lower implant densities for those with moderate curves and good flexibility. Among the experts, the consensus has continued that higher implant densities should be used for larger, stiffer curves. The purpose of the present study was to compare the radiographic results between high-implant density (HID) and low-implant density (LID) constructs in patients with large (>65°), rigid (<50% flexibility) curves who had undergone anterior release and posterior spinal fusion. We reviewed the idiopathic scoliosis cases performed at a single institution from 2006 to 2014. Only those meeting the inclusion criteria were selected. The patients were divided into HID and LID groups. The postoperative radiographs were compared for coronal correction, thoracic kyphosis, pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, and sagittal vertical axis. A statistically significant improvement in coronal correction was detected in the HID group at all follow-up points (final follow-up: HID, 81.1% vs. LID, 70.4%; P= 0.01). When preoperative thoracic kyphosis was considered, no differences were found between the 2 groups. No differences were found in the other sagittal parameters. In patients with large, rigid idiopathic scoliosis undergoing anterior release and posterior spinal fusion, a small, but statistically, significant improvement in the coronal Cobb angle was seen. It remains to be determined whether this small difference in radiographic correction will have any influence on the clinical outcome.

Comparison of Pulmonary Function After Selective Anterior Versus Posterior Fusion for the Correction of Thoracolumbar and Lumbar Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Study Design:Retrospective multicenter study.Objectives:To compare the selective anterior spinal fusion (ASF) versus posterior spinal fusion (PSF) on postoperative pulmonary function testing (PFT) whether thoracotomy with separation of the diaphragm by anterior approach influences the PFT in thoracolumbar and lumbar adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).Methods:A multicenter series of AIS patients who underwent selective spinal fusion were retrospectively reviewed. Seventy-nine female patients were included (mean 15.8 years). There were 35 patients in the ASF group and 44 patients in the PSF group. Patient demographics, radiographic measurements, and PFT data from preoperative to 2-year follow-up were analyzed.Results:Preoperatively, there were no significant differences in PFTs between the groups. The ASF group patients were more likely to undergo shorter fusions (4.5 instrumented vertebral levels) than those in the PSF group (5.2 levels). At 2-year follow-up, forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) in ASF group were statistically lower than those in PSF group. When comparing preoperative and 2-year changes on each procedure, only %FVC showed significant difference in ASF while FVC, FEV1, and %FEV1 did not. Meanwhile, the ASF group showed a significant decrease in FVC at 6 and 12 months compared to preoperative values. In PSF group, there was a decrease at 6 months, returned to preoperative value at 1-year follow-up.Conclusions:Pulmonary function after ASF and PSF was similar at 2 years; however, anterior group did not return to the baseline at 6 months and 1 year suggesting anterior approach may affect early postoperative pulmonary function.