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Thoracotomy and scoliosis.
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Gothenburg University, Sahlgren Hospital, Sweden.
Spine
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Children undergoing lateral thoracotomy may develop thoracic scoliosis post-surgery. Most curves were mild and did not require treatment, but this complication should be considered.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Lateral thoracotomy in childhood is performed for various conditions, including esophageal atresia, and cardiac and pulmonary disorders.
- Post-surgical spinal deformities are a potential concern following thoracic procedures in pediatric patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and characteristics of thoracic scoliosis in patients who underwent lateral thoracotomy during childhood.
- To determine if surgical approach for esophageal atresia influences scoliosis curvature direction.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on 61 patients operated on in childhood via lateral thoracotomy.
- Patients were evaluated for the development of thoracic scoliosis after growth completion.
Main Results:
- Twenty out of 61 patients (32.8%) developed thoracic scoliosis exceeding 10 degrees.
- Curves were predominantly convex to the operated side, except in esophageal atresia cases where they were concave.
- No scoliosis curves exceeded 25 degrees, and no therapeutic intervention was necessary.
Conclusions:
- Thoracic scoliosis is a potential complication following childhood lateral thoracotomy.
- The direction of the curve may differ based on the primary surgical indication, particularly esophageal atresia repair.
- While typically mild, awareness of this complication is important for long-term patient monitoring.