Early Post-Operative Changes in Pulmonary Function Following Anterior Thoracoscopic Instrumentation Versus Anterior Open Instrumentation for Scoliosis

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

The amount of chest cage violation in the anterior thoracoscopic instrumentation approach is less than the anterior open approach. It is hypothesized that the expected decline in pulmonary function will be less after the minimally invasive approach yet the difference in the effect on pulmonary function between the two approaches is not known. Values for Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV) were collected pre-operatively and 3 months post-operatively in patients undergoing an anterior thoracic instrumentation (thoracoscopic or open) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis at two institutions. Both FVC and FEV showed a decrease three months following the procedure for the two groups; however, the percent decline in FVC was significantly different between the approaches, greater in the open group than the thoracoscopic group, 19% vs. 13% respectively.

· 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.