The possibility of creating lordosis and correcting scoliosis simultaneously after partial disc removal. Balance lines of lumbar motion segments.
METHODS
The feasibility of correcting scoliosis and creating lordosis simultaneously in the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine by anterior instrumentation was investigated by in vitro testing.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the vertebral zones in which a compressive load applied in a motion segment creates side bending and lordosis in intact motion segments and after partial disc removal.


BACKGROUND
Most investigators have observed a kyphogenic effect of anterior scoliosis instrumentation and recommended dorsal placement of screws and the use of wedge grafts, although wedge grafts were not used routinely by all surgeons.


METHODS
Zones of lordosization and side bending were determined by evaluation of balance lines between extension-flexion and side bending, respectively, by axial loading on ligamentous human motion segments with intact discs and after partial disc removal.


RESULTS
In lumbar motion segments with intact discs, it is possible to achieve ipsilateral side bending and lordosization by anterior instrumentation. After partial disc removal, the balance line between extension and flexion runs through the ipsilateral pedicle, and, therefore, a compressive load between the vertebral bodies always creates kyphosis.


CONCLUSIONS
After partial disc removal, it is not possible to create lordosis and correction of scoliosis simultaneously by ipsilateral anterior instrumentation without the use of intervertebral wedge grafts.
Ogon
M
M
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Innsbruck, Austria.
Haid
C
C
Krismer
M
M
Jesenko
R
R
Wimmer
C
C
D000328:Adult; D002102:Cadaver; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000601:surgery*; D008141:Lordosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000502:physiology / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000601:surgery*; D016474:Weight-Bearing / Q000502:physiology