ABSTRACT

In this retrospective study it was aimed to evaluate clinical and radiological results in patients with Scheuermann kyphosis who were treated by only posterior approach using segmental pedicle screw fixation.

Eleven patients with Scheuermann kyphosis who were surgically treated from 2003 to 2009 were included in this study. Data from preoperative period, early postoperative period and last follow-up were assessed. Parameters of evaluation included measurements for angles of thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, C7-sagittal plumb line and SRS-22 patient questionnaire forms. Mean operation time, blood loss and operated vertebral levels were recorded. P ≤ 0.005 was statistically significant.

Of the 11 patients operated with segmental pedicle screw fixation 5 were female, 6 were male. Mean age was 17.5 years ± 2.3 (range 13-20 years) and mean follow-up was 19.1 months (range 12-38 months). Mean thoracic kyphosis angles at preoperatively were 72.3° ± 9.05 and decreased to 42.4° ± 3.88° at early postoperative period ( p≤ 0.001) and at last follow-up it was 37.6°± 8.7 ( p=0.108). Mean angle of lumbar lordosis was 48.1° ± 18.1°, 34.7° ± 5.5° and 30.2° ±7.06°, respectively ( p = 0.023). According to the global sagittal balance assessment the mean preoperative value was -1 cm and at the final follow- up it was measured as – 0.3 cm. Mean operation level was 12.7 vertebrae, blood loss was 1.5 unite and operation time was 300 minutes.

Mean SRS-22 evaluation point was 4.1 and there was no correlation between radiological correction and clinical results (p= 0.190).

There were no major complication and junctional kyphosis problems at follow up period.

In conclusion, Scheuermann kyphosis can be treated safely and successfully by only posterior approach using segmental pedicle screw fixation. Degree of radiological correction doesnʼt affect the clinical results.