Neurologic injuries with the Galveston technique of L-rod instrumentation for scoliosis.
A group of surgeons who used the Galveston technique for L-rod instrumentation (LRI) were surveyed to learn their experience with associated neurologic injuries. Among 507 LRIs for scoliosis there were two partial cord syndromes (0.4%), 13 "nerve root hyperesthesias" (2.6%), and two other nerve injuries (0.4%). All patients, except one with mild residuals after a partial cord injury, fully recovered from their neurologic problem. Experience in spinal surgery, education about LRI strategies and techniques, hands-on technical instruction, and use of an established process for LRI are believed to be the factors that enabled these surgeons to perform this complex procedure with relative safety.
B L
BL
Allen
R L
RL
Ferguson
D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006941:Hyperesthesia / Q000209:etiology; D009984:Orthopedic Fixation Devices / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000601:surgery*; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D013126:Spinal Nerve Roots / Q000293:injuries