Short Segment Anterior Fusion with Cages in Thoracolumbar Scoliosis

PURPOSE: Kyphosis has been shown to increase in the instrumented segments in solid rod short segment fusions. This study evaluates whether anterior structural support in the form of metal cages can prevent this increasing kyphosis.

METHODS: Eighteen patients with adolescent idiopathic thoracolumbar scoliosis who underwent short segment anterior spinal fusion with a solid rod-screw construct and metal cages were included in this retrospective study.

RESULTS: Mean thoracolumbar curve Cobb angle preoperatively was 50°, postoperatively 14°, and at final follow-up 20°. Mean kyphosis over the instrumented segment was 3° preoperatively, 3° postoperatively and 6° at final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS: Compared to a previous study on solid rod short segment anterior fusion without cages, this study showed less kyphosis in the instrumented segment postoperatively by an average of 7°.