Anterior Thoracoscopic Instrumentation: A Matched Comparison to Anterior Open and Posterior Open Instrumentation

· (a – DePuy AcroMed; b – DePuy AcroMed)

The minimally invasive anterior thoracoscopic instrumentation approach has not previously been compared to the open anterior and posterior approaches. The purpose of this study was to compare the results of three instrumentation approaches (thoracoscopic, open anterior, and posterior) in a matched cohort of idiopathic scoliosis patients. Radiographic, perioperative and SRS questionnaire data for each thoracoscopic instrumentation case from the Harms Study Group database with at least 1-year follow-up was matched to the data for an open anterior patient and posterior patient for comparison (29 patients in each group). The results suggest similar outcomes between the three approaches. There was a trend towards greater curve correction in the posterior group, however the only statistical difference was in the operative time – longer for the thoracoscopic group.

· If noted, the author indicates something of value received. The codes are identified as: a-research or institutional support; b-miscellaneous funding; c-royalties; d-stock options.