gms | German Medical Science

Objective: The correction of idiopathic and neurogenic scoliosis are even today among the most demanding and complex operations. In a prospective study we analysed a new hybrid technology and their complications compared to the conventional surgical techniques.

Method: Between July 2007 and April 2010 49 Patients were operated (31 women, 18 men) because of an idiopathic or neuromuscular scoliosis. The mean age was 18.6 years (16–29 years). All operations were performed via an unilateral open correction and a minimally invasive stabilisation on the contralateral side. The DePuy Synthes Expedium and VIPER II system was used for all operations. The Cobb angle was measured pre-and postoperative (after 6, 12, 24, months). Furthermore, a study of the intra- and postoperative complications, as well as the rate of fusion was analysed.

Results: A total 20-thoracic, 21 thoraco-lumbar and 8 lumbar scoliosis were operated in 49 patients. The preoperative Cobb angle was on average 67.5° (45°–85°). The postoperative residual curvature was 16.5° (11°–19°) with an average loss of correction of 1.5° (0°–3°) after 24 months. Intraoperative blood loss amounted to an average 165 ml (100–300 ml) at an average operating time of 165 minutes (120–210 min). There were no implant related or neurological complications.

Conclusions: The correction of idiopathic and neurogenic scoliosis with the hybrid technology is a safe procedure. The correction results are at the same level as in the conventional surgical procedure. The complication rate, particularly in the area of blood loss and the wound healing disorders is significantly below the average. A significantly higher rate of pseudarthrosis or loss of correction is not observed.