Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 2, 2026
06:45
Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity
Published on: September 16, 2022
Posterior vertebral column resection for VATER/VACTERL associated spinal deformity: a case report
Matthew E Cunningham1, Gina Charles, Oheneba Boachie-Adje
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Scoliosis Service, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, New York, NY 10021, USA.
Summary
A 14-year-old girl with VACTERL association and severe spinal kyphosis underwent a posterior-only vertebrectomy and fusion. This approach effectively corrected rigid sagittal deformity, offering an alternative to more invasive surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Spine Surgery
- Pediatric Deformity
Background:
- VACTERL association involves multiple congenital anomalies, including vertebral malformations.
- Severe, rigid kyphosis can develop, posing significant challenges for surgical correction, especially after multiple prior fusions.
- Sagittal imbalance can persist despite extensive surgical history.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a posterior-only surgical approach for severe, recurrent rigid sagittal deformity in a VACTERL association patient.
- To present a case study of successful management of complex spinal deformity after multiple failed fusion attempts.
Main Methods:
- A 14-year-old female with VACTERL association and recurrent thoracolumbar kyphosis underwent posterior vertebral column resection (vertebrectomy).
- Circumferential spinal fusion with instrumentation was performed via a posterior-only approach.
- Postoperative follow-up assessed sagittal balance and surgical outcomes.
Main Results:
- The patient achieved successful correction of severe rigid sagittal deformity and maintained balance 2 years postoperatively.
- The posterior-only vertebrectomy and circumferential fusion effectively addressed the complex spinal deformity.
- This approach avoided the morbidity associated with anterior surgical approaches.
Conclusions:
- A posterior-only vertebrectomy and circumferential spinal fusion is an effective strategy for managing severe, rigid sagittal deformity.
- This technique offers a viable alternative to anterior-posterior revision surgery for complex spinal deformities.
- Successful outcomes can be achieved even after multiple prior spinal fusion surgeries.
Related Concept Videos
01:16Vertebral Column: Regions and Curvature
The vertebral column or spine is a flexible column that supports the head, neck, and body and allows for their movements. It also protects the spinal cord.
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form the...
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form the...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...