Musculoskeletal deformities after thoracic surgery in children: An observational long-term follow-up study

This study reports the incidence, severity, and predictors of musculoskeletal deformities (MD), including scoliosis and chest wall anomalies, following thoracic procedures in children.

Children younger than 14 years who had thoracic surgery between 1997 and 2012 and had no other predispositions to MD, underwent longitudinal follow-ups with dedicated musculoskeletal examination performed in an esophageal atresia, orthopedic, or research clinic. Incidence of MD was calculated, and logistic regression methods were used to determine independent predictors, including sex, gestational age, age at procedure, serratus anterior muscle division, and chest tube placement.

The study cohort consisted of 104 patients followed for a median of 10.8 years (range 3-21). A total of 56 MD developed in 41 patients (39%), including scapular winging (24; 23%), scoliosis (17; 16%), and chest wall anomalies (15; 14%). The majority of MD were subclinical, with only 8 patients [8% (6 thoracotomies, 2 thoracoscopies)] requiring intervention. Among patients who underwent thoracotomies (93, 89%), serratus anterior muscle division was the only significant predictor of the development of MD [OR 8.9; 95% CI 2.8-32.6].

Musculoskeletal deformities develop in a significant proportion of children following thoracic surgery, but most are subclinical. A muscle-sparing technique decreases the incidence of these deformities.

Prospective Cohort Study.

Level II.