Aortic issues in scoliosis and scoliotic operations.

ABSTRACT

The spatial relations between the aorta and vertebrae are changing with posture, surgical techniques, and operative maneuvers. "Risky screws" (within 1-3 mm proximity to the aorta or other adjacent tissues) were found in 5.8-15.2% screws. In order to avoid early and later aortic complications secondary to scoliotic operations, careful preoperative metrology of aorto-vertebrae relations is of crucial importance. Compared with patients with idiopathic scoliosis, Marfan-related scoliosis is characterized by faster progression and it is more bracing-resistant due to the particular developmental anomalies in Marfan syndrome, implying the refractory nature of the latter. The present study aims to highlight the clinical impact of preoperative aorto-vertebra metrology in the scoliotic operations.