Limitations of Anterior Instrumentation for Correction of Thoracic Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis in the Immature (Risser 0) Patient

Information provided by

Randal R. Betz, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Shriners Hospital

Lawrence G. Lenke, MD

The Jerome J. Gilden Professor of Orthopedic Surgery

Co-Chief Pediatric & Adult Spinal, Scoliosis & Reconstructive Surgery

David H. Clements, M.D.

University Physicians

Exhibit from the SRS 2002 Annual Meeting

· (a – DePuy AcroMed)

Purpose: To review the results of anterior and posterior instrumentation in 40 immature patients with thoracic AIS (29 anterior, 31 posterior). Inclusion criteria: thoracic AIS; Lenke, et al. Type I curves; Risser 0; minimum 2-year follow-up. The mean coronal percent correction was 59% in the anterior group and 61% in the posterior group. If the lateral T5-T12 measured < 20º preoperatively, 100% were in the normal range (20-40º) postoperatively with anterior instrumentation and 60% were still hypokyphotic with posterior instrumentation. Hyperkyphosis is a contraindication, as these children did better with posterior instrumentation.

· 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.

Updated on: 12/10/09