Our Summary

The research paper is about a study conducted to identify the risk factors associated with complications after a certain type of surgery called “growing rod surgery” which is used to treat early-onset scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves sideways at an early age.

In the study, researchers looked at 55 patients who had this surgery and analyzed various factors like their age, gender, body mass index (BMI), the degree of curvature in their spine, the number of surgeries they had, the number of rods inserted, and how often the rods were lengthened.

They found that complications occurred in 37 out of 272 procedures (14%) and affected 23 patients (42%). The complications included instances where the implants failed (66% of complications), alignment issues (11%), infections (11%), neurological impairments (3%), respiratory problems, gastrointestinal problems, urinary problems, and dural tears.

The most frequent implant failure was the dislodgement of the implant (76% of implant failures), with 92% of these dislodgements happening at the top part of the implant.

Upon further analysis, researchers found that the likelihood of postoperative complications was significantly affected by the final degree of curvature in the patient’s spine, the length of time between when the rods were lengthened, and the duration of follow-up after the surgery.

In conclusion, the study suggests that the occurrence of complications after growing rod surgery for early-onset scoliosis is likely due to multiple factors, but is particularly related to the final degree of spinal curvature and the duration between rod lengthening procedures.

FAQs

  1. What are the risk factors for postoperative complications after growing rod surgery for early-onset scoliosis?
  2. What were the most frequent postoperative complications observed in the study?
  3. What factors were found to predict the likelihood of postoperative complications in growing rod surgery for early-onset scoliosis?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scoliosis surgery is to closely follow the recommended schedule for growing-rod lengthening procedures. This can help reduce the risk of postoperative complications and ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, maintaining regular follow-up appointments and monitoring the curve magnitude in the last follow-up can also be important factors in predicting and preventing complications.

Suitable For

Patients with early-onset scoliosis who undergo growing rod surgery are typically recommended for surgery if they have a significant curve magnitude, have not responded to conservative treatments such as bracing or physical therapy, and are at risk for progression of their spinal deformity. Risk factors for postoperative complications associated with growing rod surgery for EOS include curve magnitude in last follow-up, duration between growing-rod lengthening procedures, and duration of follow-up. These factors can help predict the likelihood of postoperative complications and guide treatment decisions for patients with EOS.

Timeline

Before scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient undergoes initial evaluation and diagnosis of scoliosis
  • Treatment options are discussed with the patient and their family
  • Preoperative tests and evaluations are conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and readiness for surgery
  • Surgical plan is developed based on the patient’s specific condition and needs

After scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the immediate postoperative period for any complications or adverse reactions
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be initiated to help the patient recover and regain strength
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan
  • Long-term monitoring is conducted to ensure the patient’s spine continues to heal properly and that the scoliosis does not worsen.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scoliosis surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process expected to take?
  3. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for early-onset scoliosis?
  4. How many surgeries will be needed over time?
  5. Will there be any restrictions or limitations in physical activity after the surgery?
  6. What is the expected long-term outcome of the surgery?
  7. How will the surgery impact daily activities and quality of life?
  8. Are there alternative treatment options to consider?
  9. How often will follow-up appointments be needed after the surgery?
  10. What can be done to minimize the risk of complications during and after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Liang J, Li S, Xu D, Zhuang Q, Ren Z, Chen X, Gao N. Journal: Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2015 Sep;136:15-9. doi: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2015.05.026. Epub 2015 May 28. PMID: 26056806