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Aydogan M, Pehlivanoglu T, Erdag Y, Akturk UD, Akar A. Flexible posterior vertebral tethering for the management of Scheuermann's kyphosis: correction by using growth modulation-clinical and radiographic outcomes of the first 10 patients with at least 3 years of follow-up. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:2677-2687. [PMID: 38740612 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-024-08297-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The present prospective cohort study was intended to present the minimum 3 years' results of flexible posterior vertebral tethering (PVT) applied to 10 skeletally immature patients with SK to question, if it could be an alternative to fusion. METHODS Ten skeletally immature patients with radiographically confirmed SK, who had flexible (minimum 35%) kyphotic curves (T2-T12), were included. A decision to proceed with PVT was based on curve progression within the brace, and/or persistent pain, and/or unacceptable cosmetic concerns of the patient/caregivers, and/or non-compliance within the brace. RESULTS Patients had an average age of 13.1 (range 11-15) and an average follow-up duration of 47.6 months (range 36-60). Posterior vertebral tethering (PVT) was undertaken to all patients by utilizing Wiltse approach and placing monoaxial pedicle screws intermittently. At the final follow-up: mean pre-operative thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis improved from 73.6°-45.7° to 34.7°-32.1°. Mean sagittal vertical axis, vertebral wedge angle and total SRS-22 scores improved significantly. A fulcrum lateral X-ray obtained at the latest follow-up, showed that the tethered levels remained mobile. CONCLUSION This study, for the first time in the literature, concluded, that as a result of growth modulation applied to skeletally immature patients with SK, flexible PVT was detected to yield gradual correction of the thoracic kyphosis by reverting the pathological vertebral wedging process, while keeping the mobility of the tethered segments in addition to successful clinical-functional results. The successful results of the present study answered the role of the PVT as a viable alternative to fusion in skeletally immature patients with SK. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Aydogan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Emsey Advanced Spine Surgery Center, Surgical Spine Center of Excellence Certified By EUROSPINE, Emsey Hospital, Çamlık Mahallesi, Selçuklu Caddesi; No:22, Pendik, 34912, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuna Pehlivanoglu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Liv Spine Center, Liv Hospital Ulus, Ulus Mahallesi, Ahmet Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Canan Sokak, No:4, Beşiktaş, 34340, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Department of Ortopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Hamidiye, Kâğıthane, 34408, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Yigit Erdag
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Medar Hospital, Osman Yılmaz Mahallesi, İstanbul Caddesi, No:26, Gebze, 41400, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Umut Dogu Akturk
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emsey Advanced Spine Surgery Center, Surgical Spine Center of Excellence Certified By EUROSPINE, Emsey Hospital, Çamlık Mahallesi, Selçuklu Caddesi, No:22, Pendik, 34912, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdulhalim Akar
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Emsey Advanced Spine Surgery Center, Surgical Spine Center of Excellence Certified By EUROSPINE, Emsey Hospital, Çamlık Mahallesi, Selçuklu Caddesi; No:22, Pendik, 34912, Istanbul, Turkey
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Trobisch PD, Kim HJ, Da Paz S, Chang DG. The efficacy of anterior vertebral body tethering in lenke type 6 curves for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:2696-2703. [PMID: 38753189 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-024-08300-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spinal fusion is the standard treatment for severe forms of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, with the lowest instrumented vertebra that is usually located at L3 or L4, patients are prone to develop adjacent segment degeneration in the long term. Vertebral body tethering (VBT) as motion preserving technique has become an alternative for select patients with AIS. Several studies have presented the outcome after thoracic VBT but no study has analyzed the outcome after VBT for Lenke type 6 curves. METHODS This is a retrospective single center data analysis of patients who have had bilateral VBT for Lenke type 6 curves and a minimum follow up of 24 months. Radiographic analysis was performed on several time points. Suspected tether breakages were additionally analyzed with respect to location and time at occurrence. RESULTS 25 patients were included. Immediate thoracic curve correction was 55.4% and 71.7% for TL/L curves. Loss of correction was higher for TL/L curves and resulted in a correction rate of 48.3% for thoracic curves and 48.9% for TL/L curves at 24 months post-operatively. 22 patients were suspected to have at least one segment with a tether breakage. Three patients required a re-VBT but no patient received posterior spinal fusion. CONCLUSION Bilateral VBT for Lenke type 6 curves is feasible and shows a significant curve correction for thoracic and TL/L curves at a minimum of 24 months post-operatively. Tether breakage rate and loss of correction remain an unfavorable observation that needs to be improved in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per D Trobisch
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany.
| | - Hong Jin Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Stephanie Da Paz
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Dong-Gune Chang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
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Trobisch PD, Kim HJ, Da Paz S, Alkharsawi M, Castelein R, Chang DG. Early-term outcome of apical fusion with vertebral body tethering for thoracolumbar curves in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a preliminary study. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:2530-2535. [PMID: 38615086 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-024-08242-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vertebral body tethering (VBT) has become an alternative option for select patients with idiopathic scoliosis. However, studies have shown a high number of tether breakages, specifically after thoracolumbar (TL) VBT, that can have a negative impact on the outcome, when the breakage occurs within the first year after surgery. In order to overcome this problem, we have started to apply an apical fusion (AF) in combination with TL VBT for select patients. This study aims to analyze the outcome after AF plus VBT. METHODS This is a retrospective single surgeon's data analysis. All patients were included who have had TL VBT after January 2022 and a follow-up of 12 months. Patients were grouped based on whether they only had VBT or VBT + AF. RESULTS Twenty-five patients were analyzed (15 VBT, 10 VBT + AF). Both groups showed a significant curve correction for thoracic and TL curves. Minor loss of correction was observed in both groups. A significant difference was seen regarding early tether breakages, which were found in 60% of VBT patients and 10% of VBT + AF patients. CONCLUSION The preliminary data shows a significant reduction of early tether breakages when TL VBT is applied in combination with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per D Trobisch
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany.
| | - Hong-Jin Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, College of Medicine, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Stephanie Da Paz
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Mahmoud Alkharsawi
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Rene Castelein
- Dutch Scoliosis Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - Dong-Gune Chang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, College of Medicine, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
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Lonner B, Eaker L, Hoernschemeyer D, Zhang J, Wilczek A, Elliot P, Boeyer ME, Fletcher ND, Alanay A, Yilgor C, Newton P, Miyanji F. Double major curvature treated with vertebral body tethering of both curves: how do outcomes compare to posterior spinal fusion? Spine Deform 2024; 12:651-662. [PMID: 38285163 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00803-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vertebral body tethering (VBT) is a non-fusion alternative to posterior spinal fusion (PSF). There have been few reports on VBT of two curvatures. We aim to compare the radiographic outcomes between VBT and PSF in patients with double curvatures in which both curves were instrumented. METHODS 29 AIS patients matched by Lenke, age (± 2 years), triradiate cartilage closure status, major Cobb angle (± 8°), and T5-T12 kyphosis (± 10°). Variables were compared using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests, Student's t tests, and chi-Square. Clinical success was defined as major curve < 35°. RESULTS Group baseline demographics were similar. Major thoracic (T) curve types had significantly better major (VBT 51.5 ± 7.9° to 31.6 ± 12.0° [40%] vs. PSF 54.3 ± 7.4° to 17.4 ± 6.5° [68%]; p = 0.0002) and secondary curve correction in the PSF group. 71% of major T VBT patients were clinically successful versus 100% of PSF. Major thoracolumbar (TL) curve types experienced comparable major (VBT 52.3 ± 7.0° to 18.3 ± 11.4° (65%) vs. PSF 53.0 ± 5.2° to 23.8 ± 10.9° (56%); p = 0.2397) and secondary curve correction. 92% of major TL VBT patients were clinically successful versus 75% in the PSF group. There was no difference in T5-12 kyphosis or lumbar lordosis between groups for any curve type. There were 4 patients (13.8%) with major complications in the VBT group compared to 0 (0%) in the PSF. CONCLUSION Patients with double major AIS who underwent VBT with major T curve types had less correction than PSF; however, those with major TL curves experienced similar radiographic outcomes regardless of procedure. Complications were greater for VBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baron Lonner
- Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Spine, 5 E 98th St., New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Lily Eaker
- Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Spine, 5 E 98th St., New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - Jessica Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Spine, 5 E 98th St., New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ashley Wilczek
- Department of Orthopaedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Spine, 5 E 98th St., New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Patrick Elliot
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Melanie E Boeyer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nicholas D Fletcher
- Department of Orthopaedics, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ahmet Alanay
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Caglar Yilgor
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Peter Newton
- Department of Orthopaedics, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Firoz Miyanji
- Department of Orthopedics, British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Alasadi H, Rajjoub R, Alasadi Y, Wilczek A, Lonner BS. Vertebral body tethering for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a review. Spine Deform 2024; 12:561-575. [PMID: 38285164 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00806-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) remains the most common type of pediatric scoliosis, mostly affecting children between ages 10 and 18. Vertebral body tethering (VBT) offers a non-fusion alternative to the gold standard spinal fusion that permits flexibility and some growth within instrumented segments. This article will serve as a comprehensive literature review of the current state-of-the-art of VBT in relation to radiographic and clinical outcomes, complications, and the learning curve associated with the procedure. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from April 2002 to December 2022. Studies were included if they discussed VBT and consisted of clinical studies in which a minimum 2-years follow-up was reported, and series that included anesthetic considerations, learning curve, and early operative morbidity. RESULTS Forty-nine studies spanning the period from April 2002 to December 2022 were reviewed. CONCLUSION This article illustrates the potential benefits and challenges of the surgical treatment of AIS with VBT and can serve as a basis for the further study and refinement of this technique ideally as a living document that will be updated regularly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husni Alasadi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rami Rajjoub
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yazan Alasadi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ashley Wilczek
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Baron S Lonner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Chief of Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery and Pediatric Spine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine, 5 E 98th St., 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Hoernschemeyer DG, Elliott P, Lonner BS, Eaker L, Boeyer ME. Bilateral vertebral body tethering: identifying key factors associated with successful outcomes. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2024; 33:723-731. [PMID: 38180517 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-023-08074-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The treatment of operative double major pediatric spinal deformities (e.g., Lenke 3 or 6) with bilateral vertebral body tethering (VBT) can be significantly more challenging when compared to other deformity patterns (e.g., Lenke 1) or treatment with a posterior spinal fusion. We aimed to identify preoperative and perioperative characteristics that were associated with successful postoperative outcomes in patients treated with both a thoracic and thoracolumbar (e.g., bilateral) tether. METHODS We retrospectively assessed radiographic and clinical data from patients enrolled in a large multi-center study who had a minimum postoperative follow-up of two years. Standard radiographic parameters were extracted from standing spine and left hand-wrist radiographs at various timepoints. We classified patients based on their preoperative deformity pattern (Primary Thoracic [TP] vs. Primary Thoracolumbar [TLP]) and assessed: (1) deformity balance, (2) tilt of the transitional vertebra, and (3) postoperative success. RESULTS We analyzed data from thirty-six patients (TP: 19 and TLP: 17). We observed no relationship between deformity balance at first erect and postoperative success (p = 0.354). Patients with a horizontal transitional vertebra at first erect were significantly (p = 0.001) more likely to exhibit a successful outcome when compared to those who exhibited a tilted transitional vertebra (83% vs. 62%). Patients who had TLP were also more likely to exhibit a successful outcome when compared to patients who exhibited TP (76% vs. 50%). CONCLUSION These data indicate that double major deformities can be successfully treated with VBT, particularly for those who exhibit TLP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Elliott
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Baron S Lonner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lily Eaker
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Melanie E Boeyer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA.
- Missouri Orthopaedic Institute, 1100 Virginia Ave, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
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Metaizeau JD, Denis D. Posterior Vertebral Body Tethering: A Preliminary Study of a New Technique to Correct Lenke 5C Lumbar Curves in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:157. [PMID: 38397271 PMCID: PMC10887278 DOI: 10.3390/children11020157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Vertebral body tethering has been approved for adolescent scoliosis correction. The usual approach is anterior, which is relatively easy for the thoracic spine, but becomes much more challenging for the lumbar curves, with a higher rate of complications. The purpose of this study was to describe and evaluate the first results of a new posterior vertebral body tethering (PVBT) technique using pedicle screws through a posterolateral Wiltse approach. Twenty-two patients with 5C idiopathic scoliosis (Lenke classification) were included in this retrospective study, with a follow up of 2 years after surgery. The lumbar and thoracic curves were measured pre-operatively (POS), at first standing (FS) and at 2 years (2Y). Complications were also analysed. A significant improvement of 30.7° was observed for lumbar curve magnitude between POS and 2Y. Both the thoracic kyphosis and the lumbar lordosis remained stable. Thirteen complications were noted: three led to posterior arthrodesis, three needed a revision with a good outcome, and the seven others (overcorrections, screw breakage or pull-out) achieved a good result. PVBT seems an effective technique for the management of type 5 C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The complication rate seems high but is probably secondary to the learning curve of this new technic as it concerns only the first half of the patients.
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Boeyer ME, Farid S, Wiesemann S, Hoernschemeyer DG. Outcomes of vertebral body tethering in the lumbar spine. Spine Deform 2023; 11:909-918. [PMID: 36820998 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00662-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The use of vertebral body tethering (VBT) for the treatment of main thoracic deformities in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients is becoming increasingly more common, but limited data exist on its safety and efficacy in thoracolumbar deformities. We aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcomes of patients with thoracolumbar (TL) deformities that were treated with VBT. METHODS We assessed clinical and radiographic data from twenty-eight consecutive patients that were surgically managed with VBT, all of whom exhibited a TL deformity with at least two years (mean: 44.7 ± 14.5 months) of postoperative follow-up. Standard radiographic parameters were extracted from left hand wrist and standing posterior-anterior and lateral spine radiographs at various timepoints. Outcome variables were assessed based on preoperative Lenke Classification and included: deformity measures, complications, surgical revisions, and postoperative success. RESULTS The mean age at the time of instrumentation was 13.4 ± 1.3 years, with an average preoperative Sanders Stage of 4.6 ± 1.4. A significant reduction in preoperative deformities was observed at most postoperative timepoints. A perioperative complication was observed in three patients and surgical revision was required in another four patients. A suspected broken tether was observed in sixteen patients, most of which occurred at the apex of the lumbar deformity. Only one patient required surgical revision due to a suspected broken tether. We observed an overall success rate of 57%, regardless of Lenke Classification. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that VBT can successfully correct TL deformity patterns in 57% of patients without an increase in the rate of perioperative complications, suspected broken tethers, or surgical revisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie E Boeyer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, 204 N. Keene Street #102, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
- Missouri Orthopaedic Institute, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Sophi Farid
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Sebastian Wiesemann
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Daniel G Hoernschemeyer
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, 204 N. Keene Street #102, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA.
- Missouri Orthopaedic Institute, Columbia, MO, USA.
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Baroncini A, Courvoisier A. The different applications of Vertebral Body Tethering - Narrative review and clinical experience. J Orthop 2023; 37:86-92. [PMID: 36974090 PMCID: PMC10039119 DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2023.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Vertebral body tethering (VBT) has been originally developed as a growth modulation technique for the surgical management of skeletally immature patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Given the positive results obtained in this setting, the use of VBT is gradually expanding to other patient categories, such as those with no or limited remaining growth or with non-idiopathic scoliosis. Aim of this manuscript is to offer an overview over the current applications of VBT, along with imaging and comments derived from the clinical experience. The work was based on a literature search conducted in January 2023 on Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Following keywords were used for the search: vertebral body tethering, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, early onset scoliosis, neuromuscular scoliosis, syndromic scoliosis. Results Three patient categories in which VBT has been applied have been highlighted: VBT for growth modulation in AIS, VBT as anterior scoliosis correction in AIS and VBT for non-idiopathic curves or early-onset scoliosis. Conclusion While growth modulation in AIS still represents the most widespread use of VBT, the use of this technique has yielded positive results in different settings as well, such as scoliosis correction in AIS or temporary or definitive curve management in non-AIS curves. While long-term results are lacking, patient selection seems to play a central role to reduce the complication rate and ensure predictable and stable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - A. Courvoisier
- Grenoble Alpes Scoliosis Center, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, Grenoble, France
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Courvoisier A, Baroncini A, Jeandel C, Barra C, Lefevre Y, Solla F, Gouron R, Métaizeau JD, Maximin MC, Cunin V. Vertebral Body Tethering in AIS Management-A Preliminary Report. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10020192. [PMID: 36832321 PMCID: PMC9955337 DOI: 10.3390/children10020192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) is a recently developed surgical technique for the treatment of progressive and severe scoliosis in patients with significant growth potential. It has been used since the first exploratory series, which showed encouraging results on the progressive correction of the major curves. This study reports on a retrospective series of 85 patients extracted from a French cohort, with a follow-up at a minimum of two years after a VBT with recent screws-and-tether constructs. The major and compensatory curves were measured pre-operatively, at the 1st standing X-ray, at 1 year, and at the last available follow-up. The complications were also analyzed. A significant improvement was observed in the curve magnitude after surgery. Thanks to growth modulation, both the main and the secondary curves continued to progress over time. Both the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis remained stable over time. Overcorrection occurred in 11% of the cases. Tether breakage was observed in 2% of the cases and pulmonary complications in 3% of the cases. VBT is an effective technique for the management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with residual growth potential. VBT opens an era of a more subtle and patient-specific surgical management of AIS that considers parameters such as flexibility and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélien Courvoisier
- TIMC, University Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Grenoble Alps Scoliosis and Spine Center, Grenoble Alps University Hospital, Bvd de la Chantourne, CEDEX 09, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-6-74-82-56-61
| | - Alice Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Uniklinik Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Clément Jeandel
- Grenoble Alps Scoliosis and Spine Center, Grenoble Alps University Hospital, Bvd de la Chantourne, CEDEX 09, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Clémentine Barra
- Service d’Orthopédie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hôpitaux civils de Lyon, 59 Bd Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
| | - Yan Lefevre
- Service d’Orthopédie Pédiatrique, CHU de Bordeaux, Pl. Amélie Raba Léon, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Federico Solla
- Service d’Orthopédie Pédiatrique, Fondation Lenval, 57 Avenue de la Californie, 06200 Nice, France
| | - Richard Gouron
- Service d’Orthopédie Pédiatrique, CHU d’Amiens, Université Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil, CS 52501, CEDEX 1, 80025 Amiens, France
| | - Jean-Damien Métaizeau
- Service d’Orthopédie Pédiatrique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire F.Mitterrand Dijon-Bourgogne, 14 Rue Paul Gaffarel, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Marie-Christine Maximin
- Grenoble Alps Scoliosis and Spine Center, Grenoble Alps University Hospital, Bvd de la Chantourne, CEDEX 09, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Vincent Cunin
- Service d’Orthopédie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hôpitaux civils de Lyon, 59 Bd Pinel, 69500 Bron, France
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Zhu F, Qiu X, Liu S, Man-Chee Cheung K. Minimum 3-year experience with vertebral body tethering for treating scoliosis: A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong) 2022; 30:10225536221137753. [PMID: 36420934 DOI: 10.1177/10225536221137753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Over the past 12 years, vertebral body tethering (VBT) has been gradually promoted for treating scoliosis, but there are few published studies, with only short-term follow-up. This study aimed to systematically review VBT efficacy and safety for treating scoliosis. METHODS PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies on VBT treatment of scoliosis published up to November 2021. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias in included studies. Data on clinical efficacy, unplanned reoperations, and complications were extracted. The meta-analysis was performed with R 4.1.0. RESULTS Twenty-six studies involving 1045 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The correction rate of major curve immediately post-operation was 46.6% ± 13.8% (16%-69%) and that at final follow-up was 53.2% ± 17.9% (16%-79%). The single-arm meta-analysis results of all included studies showed that VBT was effective in general. The overall clinical success rate was 73.02% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 68.31%-78.05%). The pooled overall unplanned reoperation rate was 8.66% (95% CI: 5.53%-13.31%). The overall incidence rate of complications was 36.8% (95% CI: 23.9%-49.7%). The subgroup analysis based on follow-up time indicated that patients with follow-up time >36 months had increased clinical success rate, unplanned reoperation rate, and incidence rate of complications compared with those with <36 months' follow-up time. The preliminary results showed that after 36 months of follow-up, only 7.17% (95% CI: 4.81%-10.55%) of patients required posterior spinal fusion (PSF) surgery and nearly 93% of patients avoided spinal fusion surgeries. CONCLUSIONS The current evidence from at least 3-year follow-up in different countries indicates that VBT is an effective surgical approach for treating scoliosis, with 73.88% of patients achieving clinical success. Nevertheless, about one in seven patients (15.8%) required unplanned reoperations, but only 7.17% required PSF. About half (52.17%) of the patients experienced complications. Due to the limitation of the study number and quality, our conclusion may be biased and requires verification by further studies with longer follow-up times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, 25809The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xin Qiu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, 25809The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shunan Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Kenneth Man-Chee Cheung
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, 25809The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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The preliminary outcomes of vertebral body tethering in treating adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review. Spine Deform 2022; 10:1233-1243. [PMID: 35841473 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-022-00546-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE VBT is a novel alternative to spinal fusion surgery to treat skeletally immature AIS and was approved to correct idiopathic scoliosis in August 2019 by US Federal Drug Administration (FDA). To systemically review the preliminary outcomes of vertebral body tethering (VBT) in treating adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. METHODS The electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were queried up to January 2022 for articles regarding VBT. Basic characteristics of patients, changes of radiographic parameters in coronal and sagittal planes, and clinical outcomes of surgical treatment of VBT including complication and revision rates were summarized. RESULTS Twenty five studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (23/25) included patients with only skeletal immaturity. The average % correction of the main/tethered curve at final follow-up, and % correction of thoracic kyphosis at final follow-up were reported to be 15.6-106.5% and - 31.8 to 20.0%, respectively. The most common complications for VBT were tether breakage (n = 145;21.3%), pulmonary complications (n = 49; 6.9%), and overcorrection (n = 30; 4.2%). The revision rate was 13.1%. CONCLUSION VBT could effectively and safely correct spinal deformity in skeletally immature patients with AIS and preserve the motion and growth of the spine. However, VBT has a relatively high complication and revision rates. Therefore, surgeons should cautiously consider VBT for treating AIS. Future research efforts are needed to lower the complication and revision rates. Whatever, VBT is still in its infancy and may have a promising future as a non-fusion solution for AIS.
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Vertebral Body Tethering: Indications, Surgical Technique, and a Systematic Review of Published Results. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11092576. [PMID: 35566702 PMCID: PMC9099651 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11092576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertebral body tethering (VBT) represents a new surgical technique to correct idiopathic scoliosis using an anterior approach, spinal instrumentation with vertebral body screws, and a cable compressing the convexity of the curve. According to the Hueter-Volkmann principle, compression reduces and distraction increases growth on the growth plates. VBT was designed to modulate spinal growth of vertebral bodies and hence, the term ‘growth modulation’ has also been used. This review describes the indications and surgical technique of VBT. Further, a systematic review of published studies was conducted to critically evaluate the results and complications of this technique. In a total of 23 included studies on 843 patients, the preoperative main thoracic curve corrected from 49 to 23 degrees in a minimum 2 year follow-up. The complication rate of VBT was 18%. The results showed that 15% of VBT patients required reoperations for pulmonary or tether-related issues (10%) and less than 5% required conversion to spinal fusion. While the reported median-term results of VBT appear promising, long-term results of this technique are currently lacking.
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Motion preservation surgery for scoliosis with a vertebral body tethering system: a biomechanical study. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2021; 31:1013-1021. [PMID: 34716821 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-07035-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is a paucity of studies on new vertebral body tethering (VBT) surgical constructs especially regarding their potentially motion-preserving ability. This study analyses their effects on the ROM of the spine. METHODS Human spines (T10-L3) were tested under pure moment in four different conditions: (1) native, (2) instrumented with one tether continuously connected in all vertebrae from T10 to L3, (3) additional instrumented with a second tether continuously connected in all vertebrae from T11 to L3, and (4) instrumented with one tether and one titanium rod (hybrid) attached to T12, L1 and L2. The instrumentation was inserted in the left lateral side. The intersegmental ROM was evaluated using a magnetic tracking system, and the medians were analysed. Please check and confirm the author names and initials are correct. Also, kindly confirm the details in the metadata are correct. The mentioned information is correct RESULTS: Compared to the native spine, the instrumented spine presented a reduction of less than 13% in global ROM considering flexion-extension and axial rotation. For left lateral bending, the median global ROM of the native spine (100%) significantly reduced to 74.6%, 66.4%, and 68.1% after testing one tether, two tethers and the hybrid construction, respectively. In these cases, the L1-L2 ROM was reduced to 68.3%, 58.5%, and 38.3%, respectively. In right lateral bending, the normalized global ROM of the spine with one tether, two tethers and the hybrid construction was 58.9%, 54.0%, and 56.6%, respectively. Considering the same order, the normalized L1-L2 ROM was 64.3%, 49.9%, and 35.3%, respectively. CONCLUSION The investigated VBT techniques preserved global ROM of the spine in flexion-extension and axial rotation while reduced the ROM in lateral bending.
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