Incidence of Vascular Complications Associated with Anterior Thoracic Instrumentation for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

· (a – DePuy AcroMed)

We prospectively reviewed the incidence of vascular injury in 117 patients with AIS who underwent anterior thoracic instrumentation and fusion either through an open thoracotomy (109 patients) or thoracoscopic (8) technique. 819 screws were placed (average 7 screws per patient). There was one reoperation for a thoracic duct tear, but none for undetected perioperative or delayed postoperative vascular injuries. In the 2-year follow-up period, there were no reoperations for hemorrhage into the chest and no evidence of vascular injury. In conclusion, while anterior thoracic instrumentation for idiopathic thoracic scoliosis is placed in proximity to the major thoracic vessels, the incidence of perioperative and postoperative vascular complications in this series was zero.

· 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.