An alternate method of fixation for management of early-onset deformity with thoracic kyphosis.
BACKGROUND
Although methods currently used for management of early-onset scoliosis are effective, the presence of excessive thoracic kyphosis is associated with an increased instrumentation failure rate.


METHODS
An alternate method of upper thoracic fixation by using a 4-rib construct was developed by necessity when the author was presented with 2 cases of early-onset deformity with severe kyphosis and osteoporosis.


RESULTS
With a minimum 3-year follow-up, both cases have demonstrated gratifying clinical and radiographic results.


CONCLUSIONS
This method is presented as an alternate method of upper thoracic fixation when increased pullout forces secondary to thoracic kyphosis are anticipated.


METHODS
IV.
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. grossr@musc.edu
Richard H
RH
Gross
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007738:Kyphosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000209:etiology*; D011859:Radiography; D012272:Ribs / Q000601:surgery*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D019616:Thoracic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D016896:Treatment Outcome