Outcomes of Smaller Incisions in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Rohit Rajput - Department of Orthopedic Surgery 

#spinesurgery #minimallyinvasive

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is characterized by abnormal curvature in the spine without a known cause. It is one of the most common pediatric spinal deformities, with untreated cases leading to complications. Surgery during a young age is critical in rapidly progressive cases; major invasive posterior spine fusion has been the gold standard for correction. However, that comes with potential drawbacks including significant blood loss, post-operative pain, and other factors. Innovations in surgical technique have allowed various types of minimally invasive surgery to help mitigate such disadvantages. This study carried out a systematic review to compare the different minimally invasive surgery techniques and their outcomes. The three techniques examined include anterior thoracoscopic surgery (ATS), posterior minimally invasive surgery (PMIS), and vertebral body tethering (VBT). All three methods had negative aspects. For example, ATS has a steep learning curve and high vascular complication rates, PMIS involves a longer surgical time, and VBT has a high reoperation rate. 

Shifting from traditional, more invasive techniques, the advancements made in minimally invasive surgery are allowing patients better recovery. Although there are drawbacks present, further development of such methods will foster refinement and improve patient outcomes postoperatively. With the integration of robotics and assistance from artificial intelligence, other fields of invasive surgery will also transition towards minimally invasive techniques. 

References:

1. Tsirikos AI, Ahuja K, Khan M. Minimally Invasive Surgery for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med. 2024;13(7):2013. Published 2024 Mar 29. doi:10.3390/jcm13072013

Edited by AJ Jenkins - Surgical Section Editor