Posterior-only surgical correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: an Egyptian experience

Introduction: The aim of this prospective case series study is to document safety and effectiveness of high density pedicle screws through posterior only approach with intraoperative wake-up test in correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Methods: Between 2011 and 2015, all surgically treated patients for AIS were followed up for a minimum of 2 years. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using scoliosis research society-22 (SRS) questionnaire. All patients were classified according to Lenke classification. Major and minor curves Cobb angle as well as sagittal parameters were measured on whole spine X-rays. All patients underwent an intra-operative wake-up test after deformity correction and a minimum of 80% metal density of implants was used. Results: This study included 50 patients. The mean age at time of surgery was 16.8 years. The mean follow-up period was 38.1 months. The mean correction rate for the coronal Cobb angle of the major curve was 79.12%, while that of the minor curve was 68.9%. The mean thoracic kyphosis angle was 38.4° preoperatively, 29.76° postoperatively and 30.36° at the last follow-up. The mean SRS-22 questionnaire scores improved significantly at the last follow-up (P > 0.001). There were no neurological deficits at the wake-up test. No cases of pseudarthrosis or metal failure were encountered. Conclusion: This is a prospective study of at least 80% metal density pedicle screws technique and intra-operative wake-up test in Egyptian patients with AIS. It proved to be an effective and safe technique in correction of radiological parameters, with no neurological or implant related complications. It allowed excellent scoliotic and kyphotic curves correction with minimal loss of correction. On the whole it led to better quality of life.