Hip-related functional limitations in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis: a controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Since scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity, it causes some movement limitations in the spine and related joints. However, functional limitations associated with scoliosis-related hip joint involvement are the subject of research. AIMS: This study aims to investigate the physical characteristics and functional limitations associated with idiopathic scoliosis (IS), focusing on hip joint. METHODS: Demographic characteristics, scoliosis-specific assessments and hip joint active range of motion (RoM), lumbar mobility (Modified Schober test), lumbopelvic stability (Single leg squat test-SLS), hip joint position sense, lower extremity balance (Y-balance test) and lower extremity functionality (Lower extremity functional scale-LEFS) were evaluated. RESULTS: The study included 120 individuals, with 86 in the scoliosis group (mean age: 15.7 ± 3.4 years) and 34 in the control group (mean age: 16.1 ± 4.8 years). The scoliosis group exhibited limited RoM of the hip joint in flexion, extension, right abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and left external rotation compared to controls (p < 0.001). Lumbar mobility was decreased (p < 0.001). In the joint position sense test, the mean difference for right flexion was and for left flexion. Bilateral decreased SLS test performances (p < 0.001) and Y-balance test performance (p < 0.05) in individuals with IS. LEFS scores were statistically different but not clinically different between groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Individuals with IS show decreased hip mobility, lumbopelvic stability, hip joint position sense, and balance compared to healthy peers; however, these limitations do not have a clinical impact on daily living activities.

Impact of Spinal Surgery on Intrathecal Nusinersen Injections in Pediatric Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

BACKGROUND: Complex spinal deformities necessitate surgical interventions that may intervene with intrathecal injections in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). This study aimed to determine the effect of spinal deformity correction surgery on nusinersen administration. METHODS: Pediatric patients with SMA, operated by a single surgeon, either via magnetically controlled growing rod (MCGR) or definitive fusion (DF) with skip instrumentation, were evaluated retrospectively in terms of safety and feasibility of intrathecal injections. Patients' and their parents' perspectives were evaluated through a questionnaire regarding any shift in the setting of injections. RESULTS: Fourteen patients with 15 spinal surgeries (10 MCGR and 5 DF) were included. Eleven patients received intrathecal treatment both before and after the surgery. Preoperative (n=3) and postoperative (n=9) fluoroscopic guidance was required leading to a shift in the application settings in 6 patients. Of 106 preoperative injections, 15% required fluoroscopy and 2% required anesthesia. Postoperatively, of 88 injections, 73% required fluoroscopy and 26% required anesthesia. No patients discontinued intrathecal injections due to technical difficulties associated with the spinal surgery. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that spinal surgery does not prevent safe and successful intrathecal nusinersen injections. In the DF group, the skip instrumentation technique provided access to interlaminal space for intrathecal injections. In either surgical group, no further auxillary approach was required. Modifications in the injection technique require an institutional approach, and concerns of patients and their families should be addressed accordingly. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Posterior Instrumentation and Fusion in Multiple-segment Adolescent Congenital Scoliosis: When Are Posterior Column and Concave Rib Osteotomies Needed?

BACKGROUND: No clear guidelines exist for appropriate surgical treatment of congenital scoliosis. The spectrum varies from isolated posterior instrumentation and fusion (PIF-only) to vertebral column resections. Multiple posterior column osteotomies (PCOs) with and without concave rib osteotomies have previously been suggested as an alternative to invasive 3-column osteotomies. The aim of the study is to analyze outcomes of spinal surgery in congenital scoliosis patients for a new treatment algorithm based on a traction radiograph under general anesthesia (TruGA). METHODS: Surgical intervention was determined according to flexibility with TruGA: patients with >40% correction underwent PIF-only; patients with <40% of correction underwent PCO. Patients, who had <30% of correction in TruGA and/or more than 5 vertebral levels with failure of segmentation, underwent additional concave rib osteotomies. The radiologic and clinical results were compared. RESULTS: Forty-three patients met inclusion criteria (14M). The mean age was 13.8 (10 to 17) years, average follow-up 67 (24 to 107) months. Fourteen patients were in the PIF-only group, 29 in the PCO group. PCO patients were significantly older (14.5 vs. 12.3, P=0.001). Mean operative time and blood loss of PCO group were significantly greater than those of PIF-only group. Nine patients required concave rib osteotomies. While the curve magnitude of patients in the PIF-only and PCO groups did not differ significantly (54.6 vs. 63 degrees, P=0.067), curve rigidity was significantly higher in the patients of PCO group (51.2% vs. 32%, P=0.001). Despite this, postoperative correction rates for 2 groups were similar (51.1% vs. 47.8%, P=0.545). CONCLUSIONS: The number of anomalous segments and the curve flexibility on TruGA play important roles in the decision-making process in congenital scoliosis and <40% flexibility of the major curve could be an important indicator of the need for PCO. Curves with more than 5 anomalous vertebral segments might be more likely to need additional concave rib osteotomies for adequate correction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Growing-rod Graduates With Idiopathic Early-onset Scoliosis Have Comparable Exercise Tolerance to Patients With Surgically Treated Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: Growing-rod (GR) treatment is the current standard for progressive idiopathic early-onset scoliosis (I-EOS) in young children. Despite good radiographic outcomes, the impact of scoliosis treatment on pulmonary functions is not well-defined in this patient population. The aim of this study was to evaluate pulmonary functions and exercise tolerance in I-EOS patients graduated from GR treatment and to compare them with age-matched, surgically treated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients and healthy controls. METHODS: Eight GR graduates with I-EOS with pulmonary function tests and complete radiographic results were compared with a group of 9 thoracic AIS patients at least 2 years out from posterior fusion. Both groups were also compared with a set of 10 healthy individuals. All subjects underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing and spirometry to evaluate pulmonary function. RESULTS: Age, sex, height, arm span, weight, residual deformity, and level of instrumentation in GR and AIS patients were similar. In the GR group, forced vital capacity % and forced expiratory volume in 1 second % values were reduced compared with the healthy controls and AIS group (P<0.001, <0.001 and 0.036, 0.046, respectively). Breathing reserve index at lactate threshold (BRILT) was higher in GR and AIS patients (P=0.001 and 0.002, respectively), and was similar between GR and AIS patients (P=0.916). Heart rate at lactate threshold was higher in GR and AIS groups compared with controls (P<0.001 and 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: AIS and GR patients demonstrated reduced pulmonary reserve and exercise tolerance compared with their peers with no spinal deformity. However, exercise tolerance of I-EOS patients treated with the GR method was similar to that of operated AIS patients. These results suggest a positive impact of GR treatment in children with I-EOS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-cross-sectional comparative study.

Implant Complications After Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods for Early Onset Scoliosis: A Multicenter Retrospective Review.

BACKGROUND: Traditional growing rods have a reported wound and implant complication rate as high as 58%. It is unclear whether the use of magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGR) will affect this rate. This study was performed to characterize surgical complications following MCGR in early onset scoliosis. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective review of MCGR cases was performed. Inclusion criteria were: (1) diagnosis of early onset scoliosis of any etiology; (2) 10 years and younger at time of index surgery; (3) preoperative major curve size >30 degrees; (4) preoperative thoracic spine height <22 cm. Complications were categorized as wound related and instrumentation related. Complications were also classified as early (<6 mo from index surgery) versus late (>6 mo). Distraction technique and interval of distraction was surgeon preference without standardization across sites. RESULTS: Fifty-four MCGR patients met inclusion criteria. There were 30 primary and 24 conversion procedures. Mean age at initial surgery was 7.3 years (range, 2.4 to 11 y), and mean duration of follow-up 19.4 months. Twenty-one (38.8%) of 54 patients had at least 1 complication. Fifteen (27.8%) had at least 1 revision surgery. Six (11.1%) had broken rods (2 to 4.5 and 4 to 5.5 mm rods); two 5.5 mm rods failed early (4 mo) and 4 late (mean=14.5 mo). Six (11.1%) patients experienced 1 episode of lack or loss of lengthening, of which 4 patients subsequently lengthened. Seven patients (13.0%) had either proximal or distal fixation-related complication at average of 8.4 months. Two patients (3.7%) had infections requiring incision and drainage; 1 early (2 wk) with wound drainage and 1 late (8 mo). The late case required removal of one of the dual rods. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that compared with traditional growing rods, MCGR has a lower infection rate (3.7% vs. 11.1%). MCGR does not appear to prevent common implant-related complications such as rod or foundation failure. The long-term implication remains to be determined. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

The validity and reliability of "Spinal Mouse" assessment of spinal curvatures in the frontal plane in pediatric adolescent idiopathic thoraco-lumbar curves.

PURPOSE: Radiological measurement has been accepted as the gold standard for evaluating scoliosis for many years. However, exposure of children to X-ray constitutes a major limitation of the radiological methods. Spinal Mouse (SM) is a safe, practical and easy to perform measurement of curvature in scoliosis, but its validity and reliability have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of Cobb angle and SM measurements in children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). METHODS: Fifty-one patients with AIS who were followed up conservatively were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 14.4 years (9-18 years). Frontal plane curvatures were evaluated with SM by 2 physiotherapists and the results were compared with radiological measurements. Radiological measurements were performed by 2 orthopedists. RESULTS: All the measurements were of the thoraco-lumbar curve and the mean value was 35.08° according to Cobb angle measurement. There was no difference between the interobserver measurements of SM (p = 0.256) while the Cobb degrees measured by the 2 orthopedists was different (p = 0.0001). We did not find a statistically significant difference between Cobb measurements and the SM measurements of observer 1 and 2 (p = 0.505). The interobserver and intraobserver agreement of the Cobb and SM measurements was excellent (ICC = 0.872-0.962). When the differences between the evaluations were compared, the interobserver SM differences were seen to be lower than the interobserver Cobb angle differences (p = 0.003). The agreement between the Cobb and SM measurements was higher for curves over 40°. We found a strong or very strong relationship between measurements made with the Cobb and SM methods (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that SM can be used for research and patient follow-up in the clinic as a safe, reliable, quick, and easy to use method with no side effects although it cannot be the only factor to consider when determining the treatment plan of AIS patients.

Utilizing the "Stable-to-be Vertebra" Saves Motion Segments in Growing Rods Treatment for Early-Onset Scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: There is no consensus on the selection of distal instrumentation levels in growing rod surgery. Many surgeons utilize the stable zone of Harrington, but there is not overwhelming evidence to support this preference. The aim of this study was to determine the value of bending/traction radiographs in selection of distal instrumentation levels of a growing rod construct in children with idiopathic or idiopathic-like early-onset scoliosis (EOS). METHODS: Twenty-three consecutive patients with idiopathic or idiopathic-like EOS who underwent growing rod surgery at 2 separate institutions between 2006 and 2011 were included. Lengthening procedures were performed periodically at 6-month intervals. Analyses were performed retrospectively for age at index surgery, follow-up period, and radiographic measurements. Lower instrumented levels, neutral vertebra, stable vertebrae (SV), and stable-to-be vertebrae (StbV) were identified on the preoperative radiographs. Coronal Cobb angles, tilt of lower instrumented vertebra (LIV) and LIV+1, and disk wedging under the LIV and LIV+1 were measured on the early postoperative and latest follow-up radiographs. RESULTS: Average age at index surgery was 83.6 months. Mean follow-up period was 68.1 months. Initial analysis showed that the relationship of LIV to the StbV was a better predictive of LIV+1 tilt than the SV at the final follow-up. Therefore, the patients were grouped according to the relationship of the LIV to the StbV. LIV was the StbV in 9 patients, proximal to the StbV in 8 patients, and distal to the StbV in 6 patients. At the latest follow-up, tilt of LIV+1 exceeded 10 degrees in 7 of the 8 patients where LIV was proximal to the StbV, whereas only in 1 of 9 patients where LIV was StbV, and in none of the 6 patients where LIV was distal to the StbV. The data indicate that selection of the StbV as the LIV could spare an average of 1.8 vertebral segments when compared with the SV, as StbV is never distal but almost always proximal to the SV. CONCLUSIONS: Choosing the StbV as the LIV saves motion segments and prevents distal adding on, while providing satisfactory deformity correction in idiopathic and idiopathic-like EOS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Convex Instrumented Hemiepiphysiodesis With Concave Distraction: A Treatment Option for Long Sweeping Congenital Curves.

BACKGROUND: Convex hemiepiphysiodesis has been reported to have mixed results in the treatment of congenital spine deformities. Multiple modifications of the original technique were suggested to improve the results. The purpose of this study is to report the results and complications of an instrumented convex growth arrest procedure modified with concave distraction. METHODS: The records of 11 patients with long sweeping congenital curves (involving multiple anomalous vertebrae) who underwent convex instrumented hemiepiphysiodesis with concave distraction were evaluated. Mean age at index operation was 58 months (range, 29 to 101 mo). Lengthening of the concave distraction rod was done every 6 months. The magnitude of coronal/sagittal deformity and T1-T12 height were measured on the preoperative, postoperative, and latest follow-up radiographs. Average follow-up was 44.9 months (range, 24 to 89 mo). RESULTS: In the coronal plane, the convex hemiepiphysiodesis segment was corrected from an average of 60.5 to 40.4 degrees postoperatively and further improved to 35.5 degrees at the latest follow-up. The distracted segment was corrected from 33.4 to 15.2 degrees postoperatively and to 12.7 degrees at the latest follow-up. Sagittal plane alignment was minimally affected. The average T1-T12 height was 157.1 mm in the early postoperative period and 181.1 mm at last follow-up. During follow-up, we identified partial pull-out of screws on the distraction side in 5 of the 11 patients and rod breakages in 3 patients. These were revised during planned lengthenings. There were no unplanned surgeries, deep wound infections, nor neurological complications. CONCLUSIONS: Convex instrumented hemiepiphysiodesis with concave distraction resulted in good curve correction while maintaining the growth of thorax. The correction of the anomalous segment improved over time, proving the effectiveness of the hemiepiphysiodesis. Addition of a concave distraction construct appears to enhance spinal growth, thereby augmenting the hemiepiphysiodesis effect.

Self-growing Instrumentation With Gliding Connectors for Collapsing Spine Deformities in Children: A Novel Technique.

BACKGROUND: The optimal management of young children with neuromuscular spinal deformities is currently unknown. A number of spinal instrumentation techniques have been proposed in early-onset scoliosis to achieve "guided growth," each with its drawbacks. OBJECTIVE: To report a novel self-growing spinal instrumentation technique, designed to avoid recurrent surgeries in children with neuromuscular disease. METHODS: The technique is based on the control of apical and end vertebrae by pedicle screw fixation and limited fusion. Standard 4.5 to 5.5 mm side-to-side rod connectors are used as gliding connections. Three children with neuromuscular disease underwent the described procedure. The patients were followed for an average of 36 months (range, 24 to 60 mo). RESULTS: All patients who underwent the procedure showed an average spinal growth of 1.1 mm/year, which is comparable with normative growth data and previous reports using growing rods. One patient required the exchange of dislodged rods, secondary to the amount of growth of the spine. There were no other complications or unplanned surgeries during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: This novel method provided growth in a group of 3 patients with collapsing neuromuscular spine deformities. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV-case series.

Safety and Efficacy of Apical Resection Following Growth-friendly Instrumentation in Myelomeningocele Patients With Gibbus: Growing Rod Versus Luque Trolley.

INTRODUCTION: Thoracolumbar/lumbar kyphosis in myelomeningocele patients is a common and severely debilitating condition, amenable only to surgical correction. Several surgical techniques have been proposed. Growth-friendly techniques should be preferred in this patient population due to an already compromised trunk height. The growing rod (GR) and Luque trolley (LT) with Galveston instrumentation are well-known growth-friendly techniques. We compared results and complications in 2 groups of patients who have undergone kyphectomy and fixation, either with the GR (group 1) or the LT with Galveston pelvic fixation (group 2). METHODS: Ten patients undergoing GR fixation and 5 patients undergoing LT with Fackler fixation following kyphectomy (vertebral column resection or multiple eggshell) were included. GRs were lengthened every 6 months. Unplanned surgery in group 1 was defined as an unscheduled operation due to complication; all subsequent operations in group 2 were considered unplanned. Thoracic and local kyphosis and T1-S1 and T1-12 heights were measured preoperatively, postoperatively, and at final follow-up. RESULTS: Mean age at initial surgery was 6 years and 6.5 years for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean age at the last follow-up was 12.5 years for group 1 and 13.1 years for group 2. Mean follow-up was 72.7 months for group 1 and 68.6 months for group 2. Preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up kyphosis angles in that order for group 1 were 72.3 degrees (10 to 110 degrees), 16.9 degrees (-50 to +55 degrees), and 21.6 degrees (-41 to +97 degrees), and for group 2 106.6 degrees (81 to 132 degrees), 15.6 degrees (-37 to +50 degrees), and 19.2 degrees (-42 to +38 degrees), respectively. Postoperative and final follow-up in that order for mean T1-T12 and T1-S1 heights for group 1 were 14 (11.2 to 18.7) cm, 20.4 (19.3 to 25.7) cm and 21 (17.2 to 23.2) cm, 31.6 (23.6 to 41.5) cm. Postoperative and final follow-up in that order for mean T1-T12 and T1-S1 heights for group 2 were 15.9 (14.3 to 19.7) cm, 20.1 (15.5 to 24.6) cm and 24.4 (17.7 to 27.8) cm, 29.5 (25.3 to 31.3) cm. Growth per year was 1.05 and 0.84 cm for groups 1 and 2, respectively (P=0.297). Fourteen versus 4 unplanned surgeries were performed in groups 1 and 2, respectively, and an additional 4 implant revisions were performed in group 1 during planned lengthenings. CONCLUSIONS: Both the LT and the GR system are reasonable alternatives of fixation postkyphectomy, both of which preserve growth to differing degrees. In this patient population with an already severely stunted trunk height, the surgeon must choose whether the amount of extra growth achieved by the GR is worth the risk of an increased number of surgeries.

2014 Update on the 'growing spine surgery' for young children with scoliosis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Spinal fusion procedures that are the mainstay of the treatment of progressive or severe curves in adolescents and adults are not suitable for most young children as there is a large magnitude of remaining growth. Early spinal fusion stunts the growth of the thorax and may interfere with the development of the lungs. Therefore, in children with early-onset scoliosis, 'growth friendly' instrumentation systems have been utilized to control the deformity while allowing the growth of the spine and the thoracic cage. RECENT FINDINGS: The experience with growing rods has been increasing, along with expanding indications. Several self-lengthening instrumentation systems have been introduced aiming for guided spinal growth. There has been considerable progress in the clinical and laboratory studies using magnetically controlled growing rod constructs. Growing rods and vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) systems provide deformity control while allowing for spinal growth along with a risk of spontaneous vertebral fusions. VEPTR may cause rib fusions as the implants overlie the thoracic cage and, therefore, the use in pure spinal deformities is controversial. SUMMARY: There have been exciting recent advances concerning the treatment of spinal deformities in young children. Despite these advances, the surgical treatment of early-onset scoliosis remains far from optimal and more development is on the way.

Selective estrogen receptor modulation prevents scoliotic curve progression: radiologic and histomorphometric study on a bipedal C57Bl6 mice model.

PURPOSE: Previous work has suggested that progression of experimental scoliotic curves in pinealectomized chicken and bipedal C57BL6 mice models may be prevented and reversed with Tamoxifen treatment. Raloxifene is another Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) with estrogen agonist effects on bone and increases bone density but with fewer side effects on humans. To investigate whether scoliosis progression in bipedal C57Bl6 mice model could be prevented with SERM treatment and the mechanisms associated with this effect. METHODS: Eighty C57BL6 mice were rendered bipedal and divided into Tamoxifen (TMX), Raloxifene (RLX) and control groups. TMX and RLX groups received orally administered TMX and RLX for 40 weeks. Anteroposterior X-ray imaging and histomorphometric analysis (at 20th and 40th weeks) were performed. RESULTS: At 20th week, TMX and RLX groups displayed higher rates (p = 0.033, p = 0.029) and larger curve magnitudes (p = 0.018). At 40th week, curve rates were similar between the groups but the curve magnitudes in TMX and RLX groups were smaller (p = 0.001). Histomorphometry revealed that treated animals had higher trabecular density (p = 0.04), lower total intervertebral disc (p = 0.038) and growth plate volumes (p = 0.005) and smaller vertebral bodies (p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with TMX or RLX did not reduce the incidence of scoliosis but decreased the curve magnitudes at 40 weeks. The underlying mechanism associated with the decrease in curve magnitudes may be the early maturation of growth plates, thereby possible deceleration of the growth rate of the vertebral column and increase in bone density. RLX is as effective as TMX in preventing the progression of scoliotic curves in melatonin deficient bipedal mice.

The effect of dual growing rod instrumentation on the apical vertebral rotation in early-onset idiopathic scoliosis.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Treating progressive early-onset idiopathic scoliosis is challenging. Surgical treatment is indicated in patients whose curves progress despite nonsurgical treatment. Dual growing rod (DGR) technique allows control of the curve while permitting continued spine growth and pulmonary development. Correction in coronal and sagittal planes with this technique has demonstrated both clinically and radiologically in previous studies. It is shown that apical vertebra rotation (AVR) increases with single-rod instrumentation technique. The effect of DGR technique on AVR has not been investigated, yet. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of DGR instrumentation technique on the apical AVR. METHODS: The study included 12 patients with early-onset idiopathic scoliosis treated with DGR technique. Mean follow-up was 74 months. Vertebral rotation angle in the apex of the curve in preindex surgery was measured with Perdriolle and Stokes' method. As pedicle shadows were masked by rods postoperatively, vertebral rotation angle of same levels in final computed tomography scans was measured using Aaro and Dahlborn's method. Standing anterior-posterior and lateral x-rays were measured for assessing Cobb angle, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis in coronal and sagittal planes preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the time of final follow-up. RESULTS: Mean age at the time of growing rod instrumentation was 69 (36 to 108) months. Mean follow-up was 77 (57 to 91) months. The mean preoperative AVR angle was 27 (18 to 38) degrees and decreased to 18 (4 to 35) degrees at the time of final follow-up. The difference between preoperative and final follow-up AVR was found to be significant (P=0.003). Preoperative mean Cobb angles were found to be 63.8 (40 to 98) degrees, 25 (10 to 46) degrees (60%) (P<0.001) after index surgery and at the time of final follow-up 20 (7 to 42) degrees (66%) (P<0.001). The mean thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles were found to be 46 (20 to 90) and 34 (16 to 80) degrees at preoperative stage; 25 (12 to 50) and 22 (8 to 35) degrees at immediate postoperative stage; and 38 (16 to 83) and 37 (16 to 60) degrees at the time of final follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: This study proves that the DGR technique has no negative effect on transverse plane deformities. When compared with preoperative values, correction of the AVR during the treatment period suggests that DGR is effective in controlling the coronal and sagittal planes along with transverse plane deformities. Further studies are needed to prove that DGR treatment definitely prevents progression of AVR.

Effects of the fusionless instrumentation on the disks and facet joints of the unfused segments: a pig model.

BACKGROUND: Growing rod (GR) is a state-of-the-art procedure favored when curvatures of the spine cannot be managed nonoperatively in early-onset scoliosis. Although some postulate that multiple distractions and/or relative immobilization of the unfused segments affect the health of disk and facet joint (FJ) and cause degeneration and/or spontaneous fusion, this has not thoroughly been investigated. In this study, changes in the unfused segment after a spine-based fusionless instrumentation (SBFI) are investigated and compared with the control (CG) and instrumented fusion (IF) groups. METHODS: A total of 13 piglets, 10 to 14 weeks of age, were used. SBFI and IF were performed on 7 and 3 piglets, respectively, and 3 formed the CG. In SBFI, lengthening procedures of 5 mm were applied once monthly for 3 months, and, after 4 months, all piglets were euthanized. Histologic sections of the unfused disks and FJ were analyzed, and morphometric histologic analysis was performed. RESULTS: On the basis of the Gries criteria, unfused disk median grades were 1, 2, and 4 for control, SBFI, and IF, respectively, that revealed a statistical difference (P<0.001). Unfused FJ median grades were 1 and 2 for control and SBFI, respectively, that revealed a statistical difference (P<0.001). The mean hypertrophic zone (HZ) heights were 69.78, 84.20, and 66.14 µm; HZ chondrocyte cell widths were 19.03, 18.76, and 17.36 µm; and HZ chondrocyte cell heights were 15.01, 15.04, and 12.42 µm in the CG, SBFI, and IF groups, respectively. Statistically, for HZ heights, SBFI was different compared with CG and IF (P<0.001), and, for HZ chondrocyte cell widths and heights, IF was different compared with CG and SBFI (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Morphometric analysis in this study supports the findings that SBFI preserves the growth potential of the spine. Furthermore, changes in the HZ heights show that distractive forces stimulate the apophyseal growth of the axial skeleton describing how the growth rate of the spine in GR might surpass the normal growth rate. Overall, although some degenerative changes are observed, SBFI and repeated distractions alone are not solely responsible for FJ arthrosis and disk degeneration, given that they are structurally preserved. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: GR and regular lengthening procedures do not impair disk health and preserve the growth potential of the spine if it is applied with a meticulous technique.

Safety and efficacy of instrumented convex growth arrest in treatment of congenital scoliosis.

BACKGROUND: Anterior and posterior convex hemiepiphysiodesis is a widely used surgical alternative in the treatment of congenital scoliosis. This procedure has the disadvantage of the need for both anterior and posterior approaches. Furthermore, outcomes may be unpredictable. Posterior convex growth arrest (CGA) with pedicle screws at each segment on the convex side may obviate the need for anterior surgery and provides more predictable outcomes. This study retrospectively evaluates the safety and efficacy of instrumented posterior CGA in congenital scoliosis. METHODS: Patients who had posterior CGA with convex pedicle screw instrumentation for congenital scoliosis were evaluated retrospectively. Thirteen patients (6 male, 7 female) were included in the study. Preoperative, early postoperative, and last follow-up standing posteroanterior and lateral x-rays were evaluated. Cobb angles were recorded for the instrumented segment (main curve). Global thoracic kyphosis was measured between T2 and T12 on sagittal plane. These values were compared preoperatively, postoperatively, and at last follow-up. The T1-S1 vertical height and the height between the concave side pedicles of the upper and lower end vertebra of the main curve was also determined and recorded as the concave height. RESULTS: The average follow-up was 56.1±10 months (range, 36 to 74 mo) and the average age of the patients at the time of operation was 64.5±30.1 months (range, 15 to 108 mo). All patients were Risser zero at the time of surgery. The average curve magnitude was 49±10.9 degrees (range, 34 to 68 degrees) preoperatively, 38.3±9.7 degrees (range, 28 to 58 degrees) early postoperatively, and 33.5±12.4 degrees (16 to 52 degrees) at last follow-up. There was a significant difference between the preoperative and early postoperative main curve Cobb angle measurements (P=0.001). The average concave height was 94.2±20.2 mm in the early postoperative period and 104.7±21.7 mm at last follow-up (P=0.003). The average T1-S1 height was 292.1±67.1 mm in the early postoperative period and 363.9±94.5 mm at last follow-up (P=0.005). There was at least ≥5 degrees improvement in 9 of the 12 patients in the follow-up period after the index procedure. In 3 patients, the curve did not change and the correction was maintained. Curve progression was observed in 1 patient due to a technical error. There were no wound infections or instrumentation failures during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Instrumented CGA can safely be used in long sweeping curves of immature spines. Using this technique; thoracotomy, anterior procedure, and 2-stage surgery can be avoided. Moreover, it guarantees some degree of correction in all patients because of the instrumentation effect, eliminating the unpredictable nature of classic CGA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic level IV study.

Transverse sacral fractures and concomitant late-diagnosed cauda equina syndrome.

Transverse sacral fractures in young patients occur with high-energy mechanisms. Because of the drawbacks in radiographic and neurologic evaluations of the sacral area in polytrauma patients, misdiagnosis is quite common. In this study, we aimed to report our clinical results in three patients with displaced transverse sacral fractures compromising the sacral canal and concomitant late-diagnosed (at least 48 hours) cauda equina syndrome. Bilateral lumbopelvic fixation, followed by sacral laminectomy and decompression, was performed in all patients. Despite the late- diagnosed cauda equina syndrome, we observed that surgical decompression and lumbopelvic fixation had positive effects on neurologic recovery, pain relief and early unsupported mobilization.

A rare skeletal dysplasia in the etiology of severe scoliosis: Diaphanospondylodysostosis.

Diaphanospondylodysostosis is a rare genetic skeletal disorder caused by biallelic variants in the BMPER gene. The term, diaphanospondylodysostosis, includes ischiospinal dysotosis, which was previously known as a distinct entity with milder clinical features. The clinical phenotype of diaphanospondylodysostosis is quite variable with mortality in early postnatal life in some patients. Main clinical and radiographic features are narrow thorax, vertebral segmentation defects, rib anomalies, ossification defects of vertebrae, ischium and sacrum, and renal cysts. In this study, we report on a 14-year-old girl patient with diaphanospondylodysostosis harbouring a novel BMPER mutation. The patient presented with severe scoliosis and severely hypoplastic/aplastic distal phalanges of the fingers and toes, findings yet hitherto not described in this syndrome.

Reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Kyphosis specific spinal appearance questionnaire in adolescents with moderate hyperkyphosis.

BACKGROUND: Hyperkyphosis cause poor posture, self-image, clinical or cosmetic deformity and well-being. Therefore, it is important to evaluate patients' perception of appearance in the rehabilitation process of individuals with hyperkyphosis. Recently Kyphosis Specific Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (KSAQ) has been developed for the assessment of appearance in hyperkyphosis patients. OBJECTIVE: To test validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the KSAQ. METHODS: Sixty-two patients with hyperkyphosis (curve above 50º), ranging in age between 12 and 22 years, was included in this study. Turkish translation/back-translation of the KSAQ was done by an expert committee. Internal consistency was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha. Validity was assessed by correlating the KSAQ with the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) Questionnaire. Its reliability was assessed using the test-retest method with two-week interval (Pearson's correlation coefficient) on 44 of these patients. RESULTS: Mean kyphosis angle was 60º ± 8.9º. KSAQ total scores showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.944) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.890). Moderate to strong associations were found between KSAQ total score, each item scores and self-image domain of SRS-22 (r -0.299 to -0.730, p < 0.05). KSAQ total score had moderate correlation with SRS-22 total score (r 0.423, p 0.001). Overall, the KSAQ scale showed good validity. CONCLUSION: The Turkish version of the KSAQ is a reliable and valid patient reported outcome measure of kyphosis-specific aspects of appearance in patients with moderate hyperkyphosis.

Is expansion thoracoplasty a safe procedure for mobility and growth potential of the spine? Spontaneous fusion after multiple chest distractions in young children.

BACKGROUND: Expansion thoracoplasty (ET) is claimed to be a spine-sparing procedure because of the fact that the spine is not exposed directly and intervention toward the spinal column is not performed. It is also recommended in cases of primary spine deformities without rib fusion/aplasia and when the primary problem is not in the thorax itself. The aim of this study was to report spontaneous spinal fusion after multiple thoracic distractions in patients with congenital thoracospinal deformities who have undergone ET in early childhood. METHODS: In our clinic, between May 2003 and March 2010, ET treatment was started in 11 patients who had congenital spinal deformity along with thoracic asymmetry due to fused ribs. The lengthening procedures for 6 of them are still ongoing. This study includes 5 of these patients who had undergone 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) scans. Four of these patients underwent a CT scan as part of the graduation protocol and 1 was ordered a 3D-CT because a newly formed bony fusion of the ribs was observed in a lengthening procedure. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients (4 F, 1 M) was 4.2 years (range, 2 to 8 y) at the time of the index operation. The mean number of lengthening procedures was 9.4 (range, 7 to 13). The mean follow-up period was 73 months (range, 60 to 96 mo). All 5 patients in the latest follow-up were evaluated by x-ray and 3D-CT scans of the whole spine. The CT scans confirmed spontaneous spinal fusion in the thoracic spine. CONCLUSIONS: We speculate that distraction-based, growth-friendly instrumentations are not risk-free for spinal health and motion, even when the instrumentation is not primarily on the spine. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Transit dosimetry of stereotactic body radiotherapy treatments with electronic portal dosimetry device in patient with spinal implant.

In recent years, the use of the Electronic Portal Imaging Device (EPID) as an in vivo dosimeter has become widespread. However, reports of EPID for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) applications is scarce. There is no data on this topic especially when there are high-density materials in the radiation field. In this study, we aimed to investigate the dose distributions of SBRT treatment plans in patients with spinal implants by transit EPID dosimetry. Implants were inserted in phantoms that mimic the vertebrae, and VMAT plans were created on the phantoms to deliver 16 Gy radiation doses to the target in 1 fraction. Transit EPID measurements were performed for each irradiation. The results were compared with the treatment planning system using the gamma analysis method. According to the gamma analysis results, while the non-implant model met the acceptance criteria with a rate of 95.4%, the implanted models did not pass the test with results between the rates of 70% to 73%. In addition, while the dose difference in the isocenter was 1.3% for the non-implanted model, this difference was observed to be between 7 and 8% in the implanted models. Our study revealed that EPID can be used as transit dosimetry for the VMAT-SBRT applications. However, unacceptable dose differences were obtained by transit EPID dosimetry in the VMAT-SBRT applications of patients with an implant. In the treatment of such patients, alternative treatment methods should be preferred in which the interaction of the implants with radiation can be prevented.