[Early results of operative treatment of scoliosis using the anterior derotation spondylodesis technique (VDS-Zielke) (author's transl)].

The paper presents early results of 25 surgical procedures for scoliosis using the instruments and implants of the anterior derotation spondylodesis (VDS-Zielke). The series included 10 dorsal, 3 dorso-lumbar and 12 lumbar curves, whereby up to 8 vertebral bodies were fused. The average postop. follow-up time was 25 months (8--45 months). The average degree of correction was 51 p.c. Emphasis is layed on the fact that aetiology and severity of the scoliotic curves was extremely heterogeneous. Besides excellent corrective potentials of the VDS for scoliosis, this technique offers possibilities for correction of cyphosis or lordosis as well. The results are described and documented in detail. The author puts much emphasis in describing special techniques for correcting lordosis or cyphosis as well as scoliosis in the same patient. The analysis of the results presented shows good indications for VDS in dorso-lumbar and lumbar scoliosis, congenital scoliosis of the dorso-lumbar area and thoracic lordo-scoliosis. For the indications outlined the possibilities of the VDS are superior to any other operative technique for scoliosis (Dwyer, Harrington). The rate of complications can be kept low through good selection of cases, excellent surgical technique and postoperative intensive care.