Advantage of early spinal stabilization and fusion in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Segmental instrumentation and fusion of spinal deformity in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy yields good correction and provides firm internal stabilization that allows rapid mobilization of patients following surgery. When surgery to stabilize spinal deformity is done in younger patients in whom pulmonary function is better and curves are milder, complication rate and length of hospital stay are diminished, correction and balance are improved, and patients rapidly return to their normal life-style. We no longer routinely attempt orthotic treatment of these curvatures, but advise stabilization of the collapsing spine surgically with segmental instrumentation and fusion when scoliosis reaches 30-40 degrees.