A new Technique of Posterior Closing Apical Correctional Osteotomy of the Thoracic of Lumbar Spine: A Report of Three Cases

Kang, Chung Nam; Wang, Jin Man; Roh, Kwon Jae; Yun, Yeo Hon; Cho, Do Yearn

Abstract

Kyphotic deformity of thoracic or lumbar spine is generally developed as a consequence of Scheuerman's kyphosis, ankylosing spondylitis, congenital kyphosis, tuberculous kyphosis, spinal tumor, senile kyphosis, trauma and extensive laminectomy etc. The method of treatment is usually conservative. However, in severe kyphosis, gross abnormaility and neurologic complications, and the compression of cardiopulmonary system are resulted and then surgery may be indicated. Since the report of spinal osteotomy by Smith-Peterson, several treatment options have been reported. Despite improved techniques for treating spinal kyphotic deformities, correction of severe and acutely angled deformities are less effective and resulting many complications. We propose the use of a new method of posterior closing spinal osteotomy for the treatment of severe and acutely angled kyphotic deformity to minimize the complications and for effective correction. We report the technique and results of this method in two cases of tuberculous kyphosis and a case of ankylosing spondylitis.