[Scoliosis in Rett syndrome--own experience]

Rett syndrome (RS) is a rare genetic disorder affecting only girls. The prevalence is 1:15000. The most characteristic features of RS are: lack of development, wringing of the hands. Musculoskeletal system is also affected and scoliosis remains the biggest challenge. Aim of paper is to describe the curve progression pre-operatively, course of surgery and finally radiological and subjective results of treatment. Postoperative follow-up was 3.1 year. We describe a series of 9 girls with RS and scoliosis treated surgically in single Institution. All presented scoliosis that increased with a rate of mean 16.1 degrees per year. Preoperatively curves ranged from 52 degrees up to 120 degrees Cobb angle. Curve pattern was similar in all cases, long thoraco-lumbar curve with thoracic hyperkyphoisis. All girls underwent surgery. Posterior fusion with Luque-Galvestone technique, posterior hybdrid fusion or anterior fusion was performed depending on the degree of scoliosis. Surgery and postoperative period were uneventful. Mean blood loss was 650 ml; mean obtained correction was 38%, with minimal correction loss at final follow-up. No additional surgery was required. Most caregivers were subjectively satisfied with surgery. Scoliosis in RS patients is progressive, with a high annual rate. Surgery should be performed I cases of curves of 40-50 degrees in specialized centers. The procedure is safe, and does not affect general condition nor deteriorate neurological status. In non-ambulant patients fusion should be carried out to the pelvis.