Importance of the Sagittal Plane in Understanding Adult Spinal Deformities.

The sagittal plane is known to be important in correction of adult spinal deformity. When surgery is indicated, the surgeon is provided with several tools and techniques to restore balance. But proper use of these tools is essential to avoid harmful complications. This article examines these tools with a focus on lumbar lordosis and the lumbopelvic junction. Positioning, releases, osteotomies, and instrumentation are considered with special attention to the alignment measurements they affect.