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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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Courvoisier A, Maximin MC, Daniel O, Gouron R, Evain JN, Baroncini A. Clinical experience and complications with limited pleural dissection combined with a novel, simplified technique for thoracic Redon-like drain in vertebral body tethering. Spine Deform 2024; 12:165-171. [PMID: 37668954 PMCID: PMC10770196 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00760-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report on our experience with a simplified, suction-bottle-drain technique of thoracic drain (Redon-like) combined with fully thoracoscopic vertebral body tethering (VBT) and a limited pleural approach, with particular focus on the rate of pulmonary complications. METHODS A retrospective study was performed on all consecutive patients who underwent VBT for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. For all subjects, a 10G Redon drain, an active drain system consisting of a perforated tube and a suction bottle, was placed intrathoracically and tunneled under the skin. All drains were removed on the first postoperative day. Perioperative and postoperative data such as type of access, length of surgery, amount of fluid collection in the drain, and length of hospital stay were collected. The type and number of pulmonary complications occurring in the first 3 months after surgery, along with their symptoms and management, were recorded. RESULTS One Hundred eighty-two patients were included in the analysis. The mean length of surgery was 97 min (75-120). The average fluid collection in the drain was 30 ml (5-50), the mean length of hospital stay was 3 days (2-4). During the observation period, pulmonary complications occurred in five patients (2%). Two patients presented an aseptic right pleural effusion; for two patients, a residual pneumothorax was diagnosed on the X-rays in the recovery room and one patient developed a chylothorax. All patients recovered without sequelae. CONCLUSION The simplified, Redon-like drain combined with a fully thoracoscopic VBT and limited pleural approach seems a safe and effective alternative to the chest drain. This technique allows to remove the drain on the first postoperative day, thus simplifying the management of the patients and improving their comfort.
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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
| | - Marie-Christine Maximin
- Grenoble Alps Scoliosis and Spine Center, Grenoble Alps University Hospital, Bvd de la Chantourne, CEDEX 09, 38043, Grenoble, France
| | - Olivier Daniel
- 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
| | - Richard Gouron
- Service d'Orthopédie Pédiatrique, CHU d'Amiens, Université Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil-CS 52501, 80025, Amiens Cedex 1, France
| | - Jean-Noël Evain
- TIMC, University Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
- Pediatric Anesthesia Department, Grenoble Alps University Hospital, Bvd de la Chantourne, CEDEX 09, 38043, Grenoble, France
| | - Alice Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Uniklinik Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
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Farivar D, Parent S, Miyanji F, Heffernan MJ, El-Hawary R, Larson AN, Andras LM, Skaggs DL. Concave and convex growth do not differ over tethered vertebral segments, even with open tri-radiate cartilage. Spine Deform 2023; 11:881-886. [PMID: 37004694 PMCID: PMC10261211 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00683-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the following hypotheses related to vertebral body tethering (VBT): 1. VBT is associated with asymmetric (concave > convex) increases in height over the instrumented vertebra. 2. The instrumented Cobb angle improves following VBT surgery with growth. METHODS This is a retrospective case series of pediatric patients from a multicenter scoliosis registry treated with VBT between 2013 to 2021. INCLUSION CRITERIA patients with standing radiographs at < 4 months and ≥ 2 years after surgery. Distances between the superior endplate of the UIV and the inferior endplate of the LIV were measured at the concave corner, mid-point, and convex corner of the endplates. The UIV-LIV angle was recorded. Subgroup analyses included comparing different Risser scores and tri-radiate cartilage (TRC) closed versus open using student t-tests. RESULTS 83 patients met inclusion criteria (92% female; age at time of surgery 12.5 ± 1.4 years) with mean follow-up time of 3.8 ± 1.4 years. Risser scores at surgery were: 0 (n = 33), 1 (n = 12), 2 (n = 10), 3 (n = 11), 4 (n = 12), and 5 (n = 5). Of the 33 Risser 0 patients, 17 had an open TRC, 16 had a closed TRC. The UIV-LIV distance at concave, middle, and convex points significantly increased from immediate post-op to final-follow-up for Risser 0 patients, but not for Risser 1-5 patients. Increases in UIV-LIV distance were not significantly different between concave, middle, and convex points for all groups. There was no significant improvement or worsening in UIV-LIV angle for any group. CONCLUSION At a mean of 3.8 years following VBT, 33 Risser 0 patients demonstrated significant growth in the instrumented segment, though there was no difference between concave or convex growth, even for patients with open TRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Farivar
- Cedars-Sinai Spine, 444 S San Vicente Blvd, Ste 901, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Stefan Parent
- Department of Surgery, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Firoz Miyanji
- Department of Orthopedics, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michael J Heffernan
- Children's Orthopaedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ron El-Hawary
- Orthopedics, Izaak Walton Killam (IWK) Health Centre, Halifax, Canada
| | - A Noelle Larson
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Lindsay M Andras
- Children's Orthopaedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David L Skaggs
- Cedars-Sinai Spine, 444 S San Vicente Blvd, Ste 901, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA.
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The use of electronic conductivity devices can effectively reduce radiation exposure in vertebral body tethering. 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 2023; 32:634-638. [PMID: 36520213 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07489-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vertebral body tethering (VBT) presents new challenges in respect to radiation exposure, as screws cannot be placed free-hand and the lateral positioning of the patients increases scattered radiation. To reduce radiation exposure, we introduced the use of electronic conductivity device (ECD). These are drilling probes send an audio signal when cortical bone is breached. Thus, anterior, bicortical screws can be placed without multiple fluoroscopic controls. ECD has been used for all VBT procedures at our institution starting April 2020. The aim of this study was to test the safety of ECD and its efficacy in radiation reduction in comparison with the current standard, the fluoroscopic guidance. MATERIALS AND METHODS All patients who underwent VBT between August 2019 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed and divided into two groups according to whether ECD had been used or not. The radiation exposure per procedure and per screw was compared among the two groups, overall and separately for thoracic, lumbar and bilateral procedures. The rate of misplaced screws was calculated. RESULTS Data from 62 patients and 825 screws were obtained (397 with ECD). No screw misplacement was observed. Radiation reduction with ECD reached up to 41%. A significant reduction was observed in the radiation per procedure in bilateral instrumentation (from 9.16 to 5.52 mGy*m2), and in the analysis per screw overall (from 9.16 to 5.52 mGy*m2) and for lumbar curves (from 0.54 to 0.32 mGy*m2). CONCLUSION ECD can safely and effectively reduce the radiation exposure for VBT procedures.
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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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Baroncini A, Migliorini F, Eschweiler J, Hildebrand F, Trobisch P. The timing of tether breakage influences clinical results after VBT. 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 2022; 31:2362-2367. [PMID: 35864248 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07321-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tether breakage is a frequent mechanical complications after vertebral body tethering (VBT), but not all patients with a breakage show loss of correction. The reason of this clinical finding has not yet been clarified. We hypothesized that the integrity of the tether is relevant only in the early stages after VBT, when it drives growth modulation and tissue remodelling. After these mechanisms have taken place, the tether loses its function and a breakage will not alter the new shape of the spine. Thus, tether breakage would have a greater clinical relevance when occurring shortly after surgery. METHODS All consecutive patients who underwent VBT and had a min. 2-year follow-up were included. The difference in curve magnitude between the 1st standing x-ray and the last follow-up was calculated (ΔCobb). For each curve, the presence and timing of tether breakage were recorded. The curves were grouped according to if and when the breakage was observed (no breakage, breakage at 0-6 months, 6-12 months, > 12 months). The ΔCobb was compared among these groups with the analysis of variance (ANOVA). RESULTS Data from 152 curves were available: 68 with no breakage, 12 with a breakage at 0-6 months, 37 at 6-12 months and 35 > 12 months. The ANOVA found significant difference in the ΔCobb among the groups (Sum of square 2553.59; degree of freedom 3; mean of square 851.1; Fisher test 13.8; P < 0.0001). Patients with no breakage or breakage at > 12 months had similar ΔCobb (mean 4.8° and 7.8°, respectively, P = 0.3), smaller than the 0-6 or 6-12 groups (15.8° and 13.8°, respectively). CONCLUSION Tether breakage leads to a consistent loss of correction when occurring within the first 12 months, while it has limited clinical relevance when occurring later on.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany.
| | - F Migliorini
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - J Eschweiler
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - F Hildebrand
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - P Trobisch
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
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Baroncini A, Trobisch PD, Birkenmaier C, Da Paz S, Migliorini F. Radiographic Results after Vertebral Body Tethering. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR ORTHOPADIE UND UNFALLCHIRURGIE 2022; 160:387-392. [PMID: 33873229 DOI: 10.1055/a-1387-8334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Vertebral body tethering (VBT), otherwise known as fusion-less anterior scoliosis correction (ASC), is a new and increasingly interesting therapeutic option for selected scoliosis patients. The available data on this surgical technique are still limited and guidelines on patient selection or surgical timing are not available. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature on VBT. The analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA Statement. Nine studies with data from 175 patients were available. On average, 7.3 vertebrae were instrumented. Surgical time was 230 min and the estimated blood loss 153 ml. The mean correction on the coronal plane was 52%, and there was no significant change in sagittal parameters. The revision rate was 18.9%. The methodological quality assessment with the Coleman score gave unsatisfactory results, so that available data are not sufficient to propose general indications or guidelines to perform VBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Baroncini
- Klinik für Orthopädie, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Germany.,Wirbelsäulenchirurgie, Artemed SE, Simmerath, Germany
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Pulmonary Complications after Vertebral Body Tethering: Incidence, Treatment, Outcomes and Risk Factor Analysis. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133778. [PMID: 35807062 PMCID: PMC9267721 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Vertebral body tethering (VBT) is gaining popularity for the management of selected AIS patients. The most frequent non-mechanical complications after VBT are pulmonary complications, with a reported incidence of up to 8% for recurrent pleural effusion. However, only trace data have been published on this topic. We aimed to analyze the incidence, timing, treatment, outcomes and risk factors of pulmonary complications after VBT. Materials and Methods: All patients who underwent VBT between September 2018 and September 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. The rate of pulmonary complications was analyzed and the symptoms, timing of onset, treatment and outcomes were recorded. An analysis of demographic, radiographic, surgical and pulmonary function data was conducted to explore possible risk factors for pulmonary complications. Results: Data from 140 patients were available: 14 experienced a pulmonary complication 1 day to 6 weeks after VBT, with 9 presenting a recurrent pleural effusion. A total of 13 patients required invasive treatment. All recovered without sequelae. The risk factor analysis did not result in any significant observations. However, 11/14 patients had had a diaphragm split. Conclusion: Pulmonary complications were observed in 10% of patients. The timing, symptoms and required treatment were heterogeneous. Pleural effusion seems to be more common after diaphragm crossing, but evidence is not yet conclusive.
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Bizzoca D, Piazzolla A, Moretti L, Vicenti G, Moretti B, Solarino G. Anterior vertebral body tethering for idiopathic scoliosis in growing children: A systematic review. World J Orthop 2022; 13:481-493. [PMID: 35633741 PMCID: PMC9125003 DOI: 10.5312/wjo.v13.i5.481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) in skeletally immature patients should aim at three-dimensional deformity correction, without compromising spinal and chest growth. In 2019, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first instrumentation system for anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT), under a Humanitarian Device Exception, for skeletally immature patients with curves having a Cobb angle between 35° and 65°. AIM To summarize current evidence about the efficacy and safety of AVBT in the management of IS in skeletally immature patients. METHODS From January 2014 to January 2021, Ovid Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and PubMed were searched to identify relevant studies. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated and relevant data were extracted. RESULTS Seven clinical trials recruiting 163 patients were included in the present review. Five studies out of seven were classified as high quality, whereas the remaining two studies were classified as moderate quality. A total of 151 of 163 AVBT procedures were performed in the thoracic spine, and the remaining 12 tethering in the lumbar spine. Only 117 of 163 (71.8%) patients had a nonprogressive curve at skeletal maturity. Twenty-three of 163 (14.11%) patients required unplanned revision surgery within the follow-up period. Conversion to posterior spinal fusion (PSF) was performed in 18 of 163 (11%) patients. CONCLUSION AVBT is a promising growth-friendly technique for treatment of IS in growing patients. However, it has moderate success and perioperative complications, revision and conversion to PSF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Bizzoca
- UOSD Spinal Deformity Centre, AOU Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, Bari 70124, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Andrea Piazzolla
- UOSD Spinal Deformity Centre, AOU Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretti
- Orthopaedic and Trauma Unit, AUO Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, Bari 70124, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vicenti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, Orthopaedic and Trauma Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari 70124, Puglia, Italy
| | - Biagio Moretti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, Orthopaedic and Trauma Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari 70124, Puglia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Solarino
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, Orthopaedic and Trauma Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari 70124, Puglia, Italy
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Trobisch P, Baroncini A, Berrer A, Da Paz S. Difference between radiographically suspected and intraoperatively confirmed tether breakages after vertebral body tethering for 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 2022; 31:1045-1050. [PMID: 34999968 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-07107-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vertebral body tethering (VBT) has shown promising results but also a high tether breakage rate, which has been reported in up to 48% of patients. Tether breakages can lead to loss of correction, and the most used definition for tether breakage is a loss of segmental correction of > 5°. However, there may also be some breakages that do not have a negative influence on curve correction. Analyzing the real breakage rate was the aim of this study. METHODS All patients who underwent anterior revision surgery after VBT were included in this retrospective study. Real (intraoperatively confirmed) tether breakages were compared to preoperatively suspected tether breakages. The definition for a suspected tether breakage was an angular change of more than 5° between an early and the latest radiograph. RESULTS Ten patients who received 11 revision surgeries with a total of 15 revised curves were analyzed. Of the 80 analyzed segments, 36 were found to have a breakage. Of these 36 segments, 20 were suspected to be broken preoperatively. Sixteen breakages were not identified on preoperative radiographs (44%). One suspected broken tether was intraoperatively found to be intact. CONCLUSION By using the > 5° rule, only 56% of the tether breakages could be diagnosed. On the other hand, many tether breakages will not result in a loss of correction.
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Baroncini A, Trobisch P, Blau C, Golias C, Kobbe P, Eschweiler J, Tingart M, Migliorini F. Analysis of the pulmonary function in patients undergoing vertebral body tethering 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 2022; 31:1022-1027. [PMID: 34677678 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-07029-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The literature concerning the effects of scoliosis correction on pulmonary function (PF) is scarce and solely related to spinal fusion. Vertebral body tethering (VBT) represents a new option for scoliosis correction; however, its effects on PF have not yet been investigated. As VBT is a fusion-less technique that does not limit the dynamics of the chest wall, it is expected not to have a negative impact on PF despite the anterior surgical approach. METHODS We analyzed the PF preoperatively and compared it with the PF at 6-weeks, 6-months and 12-monthts postoperatively. Considered parameters were total lung capacity (TLC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) expressed as percentages. A change of more than 10% was considered clinically significant. RESULTS Before VBT, overall TLC, FEV1 and FVC measured 98 ± 15%, 85 ± 16% and 91 ± 17%, respectively. Six weeks after surgery, all parameters were comparable to the preoperative values (TLC 96 ± 17%, FEV1 84 ± 14%, FVC 90 ± 16%) and remained so at the last follow-up (TLC 99 ± 15%, FEV1 89 ± 9%, FVC 86 ± 9). While a reduction in FEV1 and FVC was observed at 6-weeks and 6-months in patients with thoracic or double curves compared to thoracolumbar curves, no significant differences were observed at the 12-months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS VBT does not cause a reduction in PF values at a short-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Per Trobisch
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Christian Blau
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Christos Golias
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Philipp Kobbe
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jörg Eschweiler
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Filippo Migliorini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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The effects of vertebral body tethering on sagittal parameters: evaluations from a 2-years 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 2021; 31:1060-1066. [PMID: 34910244 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-07076-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While the effects of VBT on coronal parameters have been investigated in various studies, this has not yet been the case for sagittal parameters. This is of particular relevance considering that VBT does not allow direct correction of the sagittal profile. Thus, we investigated the effects of VBT on sagittal parameters in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective, 2-Center study. Patients who underwent VBT and presented a 2-years follow-up were included. The differences in sagittal parameters were evaluated, along with modifications of sagittal profile following Abelin-Genevois' classification. RESULTS Data from 86 patients were obtained. Mean Cobb angle was 52.4 ± 13.9° at thoracic level and 47.6 ± 14.3° at lumbar level before surgery, and 28.5 ± 13.6 and 26.6 ± 12.7° at the 2-year follow-up, respectively. Mean thoracic kyphosis increased from 28.3 ± 13.8 to 33 ± 13°, the lumbar lordosis (LL) was unvaried (from 47.5 ± 13.1 to 48.4 ± 13.5°), PT decreased from 9.4 ± 8.5 to 7.4 ± 6.1°, the sagittal vertical axis SVA decreased from 4.5 ± 31.4 to - 3.6 ± 27.9 mm. No kyphotic effect on LL in patients who underwent lumbar instrumentation was observed. Before surgery, 39 patients had a type 1 sagittal profile, 18 were type 2a, 14 type 2b and 15 type 3. Postoperatively, 54 were type 1, 8 were 2a, 13 were 2b and 11 were type 3. CONCLUSIONS VBT positively influences sagittal parameters and does not have a kyphotic effect on LL.
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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: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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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Preliminary outcomes after vertebral body tethering (VBT) for lumbar curves and subanalysis of a 1- versus 2-tether construct. 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; 30:3570-3576. [PMID: 34591175 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-07009-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aim of this study was to analyze the rate of tether breakages after lumbar vertebral body tethering (VBT) and to study the effects and possible benefits of the use of a 2-tether construct. Tether breakage is a known mechanical complication after VBT. However, the literature only refers to thoracic VBT, and no data on the breakage rate or 2-tether construct after lumbar VBT are available. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients who underwent lumbar VBT with lowest instrumented vertebra at L3 or L4 and had a 1-year follow-up were included. Radiologic data were obtained preoperatively, at the 1st standing X-ray and at the 1-year follow-up to study breakage rate, loss of correction and lumbar lordosis in 1- and 2-tether constructs. RESULTS Data from 30 patients (mean age 14.7 ± 1.8) were available, 12 with double tether. Double tether did not decrease lumbar lordosis. The breakage rate was 24% in segments instrumented with a single tether and 16% in segments instrumented with a double tether (OR 1.6, p = 0.4). Lumbar loss of correction was 10° ± 6.8° in the entire cohort and 12.1° ± 5.4° in patients with a breakage (p = 0.2). Revision rate was 10%, due to tether breakage and loss of correction. CONCLUSION Breakage rate after lumbar VBT is high, but was improved with the use of a 2-tether construct. Despite tether breakage, loss of correction was limited and the revision rate low. The use of a double tether does not have a kyphotic effect on the lumbar spine.
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Baroncini A, Trobisch PD, Berrer A, Kobbe P, Tingart M, Eschweiler J, Da Paz S, Migliorini F. Return to sport and daily life activities after vertebral body tethering for AIS: analysis of the sport activity questionnaire. 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; 30:1998-2006. [PMID: 33638722 PMCID: PMC7912966 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-021-06768-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Vertebral body tethering (VBT) is an alternative to fusion for selected scoliosis patients. As VBT does not limit spine mobility, it has been propagated that this technique allows a quicker return to physical activity than fusion. However, no data are available to support this statement. Aim of this study was to quantify how much time patients required to resume preoperative activity level and to seek possible associations between return to physical activity and demographic, radiographic and surgical data. Methods One year postoperatively, the validated sport activity questionnaire (SAQ) was administered to all skeletally immature patients who underwent VBT at our institution. SAQ data were analyzed and a multivariate analysis was conducted to investigate associations between SAQ and demographic, radiographic and surgical data. Results Thirty-one patients aged 14.5 years completed the SAQ. Within 3 months from VBT, 97% returned to school, 61% resumed physical education, 97% carried a backpack, 68% run, and 82% rode a bike; 70% bent within a month from VBT. Ninety-four percent of patients returned to their preoperative athletic level. Within 3 months, 63% of responders resumed noncontact, 61% contact and 53% collision sports. No relevant associations were observed between the SAQ and demographic, radiographic and surgical data. In particular, number of instrumented vertebrae, level of the lowest instrumented vertebra and postoperative Cobb angle did not influence patients’ return to preoperative activities. Conclusion VBT allows patients to quickly return to their preoperative activity level, irrespectively of the postoperative Cobb angle or type of instrumentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Clinic Aachen, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany. .,Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany.
| | - Per David Trobisch
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Angelika Berrer
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Philipp Kobbe
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Clinic Aachen, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Clinic Aachen, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jörg Eschweiler
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Clinic Aachen, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stephanie Da Paz
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Filippo Migliorini
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Clinic Aachen, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
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Baroncini A, Trobisch PD, Migliorini F. Learning curve for vertebral body tethering: analysis on 90 consecutive patients. Spine Deform 2021; 9:141-147. [PMID: 32827085 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-020-00191-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study. OBJECTIVES Vertebral body tethering (VBT) is raising interest for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), but many scoliosis surgeons have not been trained in anterior surgical approaches. We analyzed data of our first patients to define the learning curve for VBT. VBT has shown encouraging results in the treatment of growing AIS patients, but there is a paucity of data and long-term results are not yet available. To our best knowledge, there is no published data regarding the learning curve for VBT. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed, of all consecutive patients who underwent VBT at our Institution. Outcomes of interest were intubation time, surgical duration and estimated blood loss per screw and hospitalization length. For the statistical analysis, we referred to a linear model regression diagnostic and we used the Pearson product-moment correlation (r) for pairwise correlation. The final effect ranked between + 1 and - 1. RESULTS Data of 90 patients were analyzed, age 14.6 ± 1.8 years. On average, 9.4 ± 2.6 levels were instrumented. Per screw, mean intubation time was 33.1 ± 7.6 min (r = - 0.57; p > 0.0001), mean surgical duration 21.3 ± 5.7 min (r = - 0.55; p > 0.0001), mean estimated blood loss 21.3 ± 18.2 ml (r = - 0.66; p > 0.0001). Mean hospitalization length was 8.3 ± 3.1 days (r = - 0.32; p = 0.002). No intraoperative complications were reported. CONCLUSION VBT has a rapid learning curve: the estimated blood loss per screw is expected to decrease by 60%, intubation time and surgical duration by over 50%, and hospitalization length by 32% for each treated patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Baroncini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany. .,Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Kammerbruchstr. 8, Simmerath, Germany.
| | - Per David Trobisch
- Department of Spine Surgery, Eifelklinik St. Brigida, Kammerbruchstr. 8, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Filippo Migliorini
- Department of Orthopaedics, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
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