Low-Density Pedicle Screw Constructs for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Evaluation of Effectiveness and Cost

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a low-density (LD) screw construct can achieve curve correction similar to a high-density (HD) construct in adolescent scoliosis. METHODS: Patients treated operatively for idiopathic scoliosis between 2007 and 2011 were identified through a database review. A consistent LD screw construct was used. Radiographic assessment included percent correction of major and fractional lumbar curves, T5-T12 kyphosis, and angle of lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV). Costs were compared with HD constructs. RESULTS: Thirty-five patients were included in the analysis. Ages ranged from 12 to 19 years (mean = 14.9 years). Average screw density was 1.2 screws per level (range = 1.07-1.5 screws). Mean percent curve correction at latest follow-up: major curve, 66.9%; fractional lumbar curve, 63%. Average postoperative thoracic kyphosis: 29.5°. Mean LIV angle: 5.6°. Average construct cost was $14 871 per case compared with $23 840 per case if all levels had been instrumented with 2 screws, amounting to an average savings of $9000. CONCLUSIONS: Our LD screw construct is among the lowest density constructs reported and achieves curve correction comparable to HD constructs at substantially lower cost.