Deformity correction from the convexity of the curve in neuromuscular scoliosis.

BACKGROUND

"Convex Pedicle Screw Technique" reduces the theoretical risk of neurovascular injury. Our aim is to evaluate the efficacy of this technique in patients with neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS).

METHODS

Retrospective study of 12 patients who underwent a Convex Pedicle Screw Technique and were diagnosed with NMS. Patients who had undergone previous spinal surgery were excluded. The minimum follow-up required was 24 months. Demographic data, intraoperative data, neurovascular complications and neurophysiological events requiring implant repositioning, as well as pre- and postoperative radiological variables were collected.

RESULTS

Twelve patients diagnosed with NMS underwent surgery. The median operative time was 217 minutes. Mean blood loss was 3.8±1.1 g/dL hemoglobin (Hb). The median postoperative stay was 8.8±4 days. A reduction of the Cobb angle in primary curve of 49.1% (from 52.8°±18° to 26.5°±12.6°; P<0.001) and in secondary curve of 25.2% (from 27.8°±18.9° to 18.3°±13.3°; P=0.10) was achieved. Coronal balance improved by 69.4% (7.5±46.2 2.3±20.9 mm; P=0.72) and sagittal balance by 75% (from -14.1±71.8 -3.5±48.6 mm; P=0.50). There were no neurovascular complications. There were no intraoperative neurophysiological events requiring implant repositioning, nor during reduction maneuvers. No infections were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The correction of the deformity from convexity in NMS achieves similar results to other techniques, and a very low complication rate.