Surgical treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis

Eur Spine J. 2013 Nov;22 Suppl 6(Suppl 6):S829-33. doi: 10.1007/s00586-013-3012-1. Epub 2013 Sep 24.

Abstract

Introduction: The surgical treatment of adult scoliosis still presents many points of discussion. Decision-making on the type of treatment is mandatory to evaluate all the possible alternatives to surgery.

Materials and methods: From January 2000 to December 2008, 49 cases of adult degenerative scoliosis and kyphoscoliosis were surgically treated. Thirty-six patients were monitored for a mean of 8 years (5-10). There were 10 males and 26 females, with a mean age of 66 years (55-80). Arthrodesis was carried out using pedicle screws at all levels extending to the sacrum in 30 cases and to the ileum in 4. Laminectomy was performed in 20 cases, radicular liberation in 15, PLIF in 10.

Results: After an average term of 8 years (5-10) we record 8 (23 %) excellent cases, 10 (29 %) good, 12 (34 %) satisfactory, 5 (14 %) bad. The VAS in the pre-operative period had a value of 7 (5-9) passed in the post-operative period of 3 (0-6). 13 reoperations were performed (36 %).

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pedicle Screws
  • Reoperation
  • Scoliosis / surgery*
  • Spinal Fusion / instrumentation
  • Spinal Fusion / methods*