Neonatal kyphectomy in the patient with myelomeningocele.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study was used to investigate a group of neonates with myelomeningocele who had a kyphectomy performed in conjunction with dural sac closure during the first few days of life.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of operative intervention in the neonatal period to correct the kyphotic deformity in the patient with myelomeningocele and to monitor its long-term results.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Orthopedic management originally focused on the immediate treatment of the kyphotic deformity in the infant with myelomeningocele. However, there has been a movement toward postponing surgical treatment of the kyphos until a later age. This study included the longest follow-up of the largest group of neonates that a single surgeon has managed surgically since the treatment of this condition was originally described.

METHODS

The radiographic and clinical results for all neonates treated with a kyphectomy at the time of myelomeningocele closure between 1980 and 2000 were analyzed.

RESULTS

Neonatal kyphectomy was performed on nine males and two females. The average preoperative kyphotic angle measured 67 degrees. The average initial correction was 77 degrees, and the average loss of correction at follow-up assessment was 55 degrees. There were no serious complications, and wound closure was successful in all patients. One patient required a repeat kyphectomy and posterior spinal fusion at the age of 9 years and 2 months. The average follow-up period was 7 years and 4 months (range 44-174 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Kyphectomy performed at the time of dural sac closure in the neonate is a safe procedure with excellent initial correction. Eventual recurrence is expected despite the procedure. However, it occurs in the form of a longer, more rounded deformity that is less technically demanding.