Shilla Growth Guidance for Early-Onset Scoliosis: Results After a Minimum of Five Years of Follow-up

Posterior hemivertebrectomy and short segment fixation-long term results

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to study the long-term results of one-stage single and multiple level posterior hemivertebrectomies and to find out the safety and efficacy of the procedure.

METHOD

Twenty patients (9 male and 11 female) with mean age of 9.2 years (2 years 4 months-14 years 10 months) with congenital scoliosis (hemivertebrae) were treated with posterior hemivertebrectomy with intraoperative neuromonitoring. Posterior exposure and transpedicular fixation of the adjoining vertebrae was done. The hemivertebra was approached from the convex side, and transpedicular decancellation followed by complete excision was done. Controlled compression at the convexity was done after a cantilever manoeuvre was done for rod capturing on the convexity to achieve the reduction.

RESULTS

Average number of hemivertebra removed was 1.46 (1-3). Mean pre-op and post-op coronal Cobb angle was 48.8° (range 22 to 80) and 24.2° (range 7 to 41), respectively (p < 0.001). Mean pre-op and post-op sagittal Cobb angle was 32.1° (range 7 to 76) and 13.6° (range 0 to 23) respectively, (p < 0.005). Mean coronal and sagittal Cobb correction percentage achieved was 50.2 and 51.8%, respectively. Mean follow-up was 62.4 months (range 24-73 months). Mean loss of coronal and sagittal correction at final follow-up was 2.26° (0-8) and 1.55° (0-5), respectively. Maximum correction in both coronal (p = 0.167) and sagittal (p = 0.095) planes was achieved in thoracolumbar vertebrae. Maximum correction was achieved in 3 level hemivertebrae in sagittal (p = 0.9) and 2 level hemivertebrae in coronal plane (p = 0.740).

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior hemivertebrectomy is a safe and effective procedure for congenital scoliosis. Not only single but up to 3 level hemivertebrae can be safely removed with good correction of deformity. Long-term follow-up reveals good maintenance of correction.

New developments in the treatment of early-onset spinal deformity: role of the Shilla growth guidance system

Early-onset scoliosis is a complex condition with multiple facets. The goal of treating any spinal deformity is to improve the condition of the patient with the least intervention necessary. A system that allows for continuation of natural spinal growth while correcting the deformity should be the goal of treating this complex condition. The SHILLA growth guidance system allows for continued growth of the pediatric spine while correcting and guiding the apex and guiding the future growth of the curvature. The system involves selective fusion across the apex of the curvature, and minimally invasive instrumentation is then used above and below the apex to allow for continued growth of the spine. A review of recent literature on the SHILLA growth guidance system shows promising results. Early animal models showed continued growth across unfused levels with minimal facet articular damage. Comparative studies to traditional growing rods showed significantly less total surgeries along with comparable correction and longitudinal growth. The SHILLA growth guidance system is a good option for this complex patient group. Results are comparable with other growing constructs with significantly less operative interventions. The SHILLA system allows for natural growth of the pediatric spine while correcting the scoliotic deformity in a minimally invasive method. The goal of this article is to present a comprehensive review of the SHILLA system surgical technique and the associated literature concerning this topic.

The effect of chiropractic techniques on the Cobb angle in idiopathic scoliosis arising in adolescence

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine whether chiropractic techniques would reduce the curvature of idiopathic scoliosis, which commonly occurs in elementary school children. [Subjects] The subjects of this study were 5 healthy elementary students who listened to an explanation of the study methods and purpose of the study and agreed to participate in the experiment. [Methods] The Cobb angle was measured by taking an X-ray (FCT-1, Dongmun, Goyangsi, Republic of Korea) taken from the rear, using X-ray film. The method of intervention this study used was application of chiropractic techniques. Spinal correction was carried out for 30 minutes per session, which included soft tissue massage, 3 times a week for 8 weeks. [Results] It was established that the Cobb angle was noticeably decreased after 4 weeks of the intervention. Post Hoc analysis revealed that the Cobb angle noticeably decreased after 4 weeks compared with the Cobb angle before the chiropractic techniques were applied. However, no significant difference in Cobb angle was evident after the fourth week. [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that chiropractic techniques can effectively reduce the Cobb angle within as little as 4 weeks. So, we can confirm that the chiropractic techniques were effective for reducing the curvature of idiopathic scoliosis.