Scoliosis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Scoliosis, including details on treatment, exercises, surgery, symtpoms.

Treatment of congenital scoliosis with single-level hemivertebrae.

Chen YT, Wang ST, Liu CL, Chen TH

Department of Orthopedics, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.

INTRODUCTION: The natural history of congenital scoliosis with hemivertebrae is unpredictable and the management is also controversial. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1986 and 2004, 22 patients (eight male and fourteen female, mean 19.3 years old) with single-level hemivertebrae related congenital scoliosis underwent non-operative or operative treatment at our institution with an average follow-up period of 8.8 years. RESULTS: Only a 5 degrees curve progression was noted in upper thoracic hemivertebrae after followed up 6 years. By one stage combined anterior hemivertebrae excision, posterior instrumentation, and arthrodesis, up to 61% curve correction can be achieved. Posterior instrumentation, correction and arthrodesis showed a 25% correction. The result of pain relief is promising in skeletal-matured patients. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical instrumentation, correction and arthrodesis showed good results. The optimal treatment of choice may differed from one to the other.

Published 4 April 2008 in Arch Orthop Trauma Surg.
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