• Se-Il Suk, Ewy-Ryong Chung, Jin-Hyok Kim, Sung-Soo Kim, Jung-Sub Lee, and Won-Kee Choi.
• Seoul Spine Institute, Inje University Sanggye-Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea. seilsuk@unitel.co.kr
• Spine. 2005 Jul 15; 30 (14): 1682-7.

Study DesignRetrospective study.ObjectiveTo report on the technique and results of posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) for severe rigid scoliosis.Summary Of Background DataThe treatment of severe rigid scoliosis is a demanding surgical challenge. Conventional procedures such as combined anteroposterior instrumentation enable limited correction. In rigid scoliosis, vertebral column resection is a better option for accomplishing translation of spinal column. PVCR is performed through a single posterior approach.MethodsA total of 16 patients with scoliosis (average age 29 years) subjected to PVCR were retrospectively reviewed after a minimum follow-up of 2 years (range 2-6.8). The indication for PVCR was scoliosis more than 80 degrees , with flexibility less than 25%. The radiographic parameters were evaluated, and clinical records were reviewed.ResultsThe number of vertebrae removed averaged 1.3, and 21 total (15 thoracic and 6 lumbar). Average fusion extent was 10.6 vertebrae. The mean preoperative scoliosis of 109.0 degrees was corrected to 45.6 degrees (59% correction) at the most recent follow-up, and the minor curve of 59.3 degrees was corrected to 29.2 degrees (51% correction). The mean preoperative coronal imbalance of 4.0 cm was improved to 1.0 cm at the most recent follow-up, and sagittal imbalance of 4.2 cm was improved to 1.6 cm. Complications were encountered in 4 patients, including 1 complete paralysis, 1 hematoma, 1 hemopneumothorax, and 1 proximal junctional kyphosis.ConclusionsPVCR is an effective alternative for severe rigid scoliosis. It is a highly technical procedure and should only be performed by an experienced surgical team.

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