title: Choosing fusion levels in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
abstract: Correct identification of fusion levels in surgical planning for the management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a complex task. Several classification systems and algorithms exist to assist surgeons in determining the appropriate levels to be instrumented. The Lenke classification is the benchmark system. Among the many factors and measurements that are taken into account when selecting the proper upper instrumented vertebra and lower instrumented vertebra are planning for selective fusion; preserving motion segments; preventing proximal and/or distal junctional kyphosis, shoulder imbalance, and neck pain; and maintaining short fusion lengths. Existing treatment algorithms do not account for every exception, and further research is required to improve long-term surgical outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery,Spine Service, Otto-von-Guericke-Universität, Magdeburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Per David
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Trobisch
authors.forename: Aaron Rich
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Ducoffe
authors.forename: Baron S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Lonner
authors.forename: Thomas J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Errico
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000379:methods*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*