Transpedicular Wedge Resection Osteotomy of the Apical Vertebrae for the Treatment of Severe and Rigid Thoracic Kyphoscoliosis: A Retrospective Study of 26 Cases.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of clinical records.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of transpedicular wedge resection osteotomy (TWRO) of the apical vertebrae to treat severe and rigid thoracic kyphoscoliosis in 26 adults.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Although posterior vertebral column resection has traditionally been used to correct severe and rigid kyphoscoliosis, TWRO may achieve the same correction with a shorter operative time and lower rate of complications.

METHODS

Between May 2011 and December 2014, 29 adults underwent a TWRO of the apical vertebrae for severe and rigid thoracic kyphoscoliosis, and 26 adults completed the 24-month follow-up. Radiologic measurements, including coronal plane major curve, kyphotic curve, coronal offset, and sagittal offset, were measured and compared. The following patient-reported health-related quality of life outcomes, including Oswestry Disability Index score, visual analog scale score for back pain, and SRS-22 questionnaire, were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

For the 26 patients followed over 24 months, the mean coronal plane major curve improved from 107.6° to 37.5° immediately after surgery and to 40.0° at 24 months postoperatively. The mean kyphotic curve improved from 90.6° to 30.5° immediately after surgery and to 33.3° at 24 months postoperatively. The mean coronal offset and sagittal offset were also improved. Improved self-reported quality of life scores were achieved postoperatively and at 24 months postoperatively, including all domains of the SRS-22 questionnaire. Bony fusion was achieved at 6 or 12 months in all patients. Unilateral leg paresis occurred in one case and recovered after three months, with a neurologic complication rate of 3.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

TWRO of the apical vertebrae as a treatment for severe and rigid thoracic kyphoscoliosis in adult patients provided excellent clinical outcomes. However, the procedure remains technically demanding and exhausting, with a potential risk for complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.