Vertebral column resection (VCR) at the subapical vertebra for correction of angular kyphosis associated with neurofibromatosis type 1(NF1): a case report.

PURPOSE: To describe the process and outcome of vertebral column resection (VCR) at the subapical vertebra for correction of angular kyphosis associated with neurofibromatosis type 1(NF1).

METHODS

A review and summary of the medical history, radiographs, operative procedure, and complications of a 16-year-old male presenting with severe angular kyphosis associated with NF1 with dyspnea.

RESULTS

A 16-year-old male presented with severe angular kyphosis associated with NF1 with dyspnea. Preoperative radiographs demonstrated multiple vertebrae were rotated in the vicinity of the apical vertebra, with a wedge-shaped deformity, dysplasia, T10-T12 kyphotic angle of 160°, and T2-L2 kyphotic angle of 95°. VCR at the L1 vertebra (distal end of the apical vertebra) with bone grafting and internal fixation was performed. Postoperative imaging revealed that the T2-L2 Cobb angle was 20°, denoting a correction rate of 79%. The patient's height increased from 130 to 150 cm. The position of internal fixation was not displaced, and the correction angle was maintained at 2-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The novel strategy of performing VCR at the subapical vertebra, with posterior displacement of the distal end, and remodeling of the spinal canal is potentially a safe and efficacious option to correct sharp angular kyphosis.