Combined Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery and Posterior Fusion in Scheuermann’s Kyphosis

INTRODUCTION: A retrospective study examined surgical correction, correction loss, sagittal balance, and complications associated with VATS & posterior fusion in Scheuermann’s kyphosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: 21 pts with kyphosis, with avg age of 17.4 yrs underwent VATS and posterior fusion. Avg. f/u was 3.2 yrs. Avg. of 8.1 discs were released anteriorly; Avg. of 13 levels were fused posteriorly.

RESULTS: Avg. pre-op kyphosis was 82.9º. Avg. post-op kyphosis was 42.4º with 94% correction. Avg. kyphosis at f/u was 44.7º with 92% correction. Most patients demonstrated negative sagittal balance, which increased postoperatively. 1 pt underwent revision surgery for inferior hook pullout. 2 pts developed pleural effusion; One required thoracocentesis. 2 pt developed pneumothorax; 1 required mechanical ventilation.

CONCLUSION: VATS is safe and effective alternative to thoracotomy. Combined VATS and posterior fusion provides and maintains adequate correction in Scheuermann’s kyphosis.