Proximal Junctional Kyphosis Following Spinal Thoracic Deformity Correction in a Patient with Kabuki Syndrome: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION

Kabuki syndrome (KS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by distinctive facial features, intellectual disability, and multiple musculoskeletal anomalies, including scoliosis, kyphosis, and generalized ligamentous laxity. The combination of connective tissue fragility and complex spinal deformity may predispose these patients to post-operative complications, such as proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK), though this association has not previously been reported.

CASE REPORT: We report a 15-year-old male with genetically confirmed KS who presented with severe thoracic hyperkyphosis (95°). Posterior spinal fusion and correction were performed, resulting in initial improvement. Within 8 months, the patient developed PJK above the upper instrumented vertebra, requiring multiple revision procedures. Post-operative infection with Staphylococcus aureus and rapid recurrent kyphosis further complicated management. A staged revision strategy, combining halo-gravitational traction followed by extended fusion and careful sagittal realignment, achieved stable correction and functional improvement at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The association between these conditions has, to our knowledge, not yet been reported in literature. This case highlights the multifactorial etiology of PJK in KS, where intrinsic ligamentous laxity, immune dysfunction, and extensive deformity correction converge to increase mechanical vulnerability. Soft-tissue preservation at the upper instrumented level, careful sagittal contouring, and infection control are key preventive strategies. Due to inherent ligamentous laxity and connective tissue abnormalities, patients with KS could be predisposed to proximal junctional failure after spinal deformity correction. Pre-operative recognition of connective tissue and immunologic abnormalities, together with detailed surgical planning, is essential to minimize complications and optimize long-term outcomes.