Where to stop the fusion distally in adult scoliosis: L4, L5, or the sacrum?
Multiple considerations must be weighed and discussed with the patient before deciding on a long fusion down to the middle or distal lumbar spine. The factors outlined above all play a role in the outcome of such surgery.
Bridwell
K H
KH
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D011859:Radiography; D012447:Sacrum / Q000601:surgery; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000379:methods*