Simultaneous translation on two rods is an effective method for correction of hypokyphosis in AIS: radiographic results of 24 hypokyphotic thoracic scoliosis with 2 years minimum follow-up

Recent publications confirm that moderate correction of thoracic hypokyphosis can be achieved by posterior instrumentation with hooks or pedicle screws. Twenty-four prospective and consecutive thoracic adolescent scoliosis patients with hypokyphosis (<20°) were operated on by posterior spinal fusion (PSF) with a specific method of reduction: Simultaneous translation on two rods (ST2R), performed by the same surgeon using stable anchorages such as screws or self-stabilizing claws. Radiographic parameters were measured preoperatively, at 1 month, 1 year and at 2 years minimum follow-up. In the coronal plane, the average main curve was significantly reduced from 51° to 17° and maintained at last follow-up, corresponding to an average correction of 67%. In the sagittal plane, the average kyphosis angle was significantly improved from 9° to 30° postoperatively and to 32° at last follow-up, corresponding to a mean gain of 23°. The 24 patients reported normal kyphosis at last follow-up (≥20°). Reduction of scoliosis by ST2R is an effective method that gives coronal correction equivalent to all screw constructs and allows restoration of normal thoracic kyphosis.