The use of three-column osteotomy in the treatment of rigid deformities of the adult spine()

OBJECTIVE: To analyze and characterize data about clinical outcome and complication rates in three-column osteotomies (3 CO) for treatment of rigid adult spine deformity (ASD). METHODS: Baseline and postoperative clinical outcomes, considering the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaires, radiographic parameters, and demographic data of patients who underwent 3 CO procedure for fixed ASD treatment were collected. Surgical characteristics and reports of perioperative complications were recorded, as well as those that occurred at a minimum follow-up of 12 months. RESULTS: Ten patients underwent 3 CO and had a minimum follow-up of 12 months (mean 24 months). The patients showed significantly improved health-related quality of life scores (ODI, SRS-22 total, function/activity, pain, and appearance). They also presented a significant improvement in all radiographic parameters considered in the study. Taking into account the surgical procedure, the operative time was significantly higher in patients with staged procedure than in patients with single-stage surgery (p = 0.003), with similar estimated blood loss and complication incidence. There were ten complications in six patients (60%), with a mean of 1.0 complication per patient. CONCLUSIONS: Despite of the high complication rates, 3 CO was an effective technique, considering clinical and radiographic outcomes, to treat complex cases of rigid ASD in a sample of patients operated in a Brazilian spine center, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months.