Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 10, 2025
Modified Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Patients with Thoracolumbar Kyphotic Deformity
Published on: September 16, 2022
Avoiding Radical Removal of Posterior Elements in Posterior Vertebral Column Resections: A Modified Schwab Grade 6
Tie Liu1, Honghao Yang1, Yong Hai1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Beijing, China.
Objective:
Posterior vertebral column resection (PVCR) is a versatile technique for correction of severe and rigid spinal deformities, but the high rate of neurological complications is a major disadvantage of this procedure. This study aimed to describe a modified PVCR technique for safe treatment of severe post-tuberculous kyphotic deformity.
Methods:
Four consecutive patients with severe post-tuberculous kyphosis underwent modified PVCRs. Radical removal of the posterior elements was avoided by performing laminectomy in stages, and the posterior vertebral wall and the bases of the spinous processes were maintained throughout the procedure. Perioperative clinical presentation, imaging data, and operative variables were recorded.
Results:
Desirable efficacy and clinical outcomes were obtained, including satisfactory correction rates and low estimated blood loss. Neurological status improved in all patients with preoperative neurological deficits, and no postoperative neurological complications were reported.
Conclusions:
Modified PVCRs could prevent excessive handling or overstretching of the spinal cord, reduce bleeding, and provide more security in the correction of severe spinal deformities. Our initial experience showed that this modified procedure might be an alternative to conventional Schwab grade 6 osteotomy for the correction of severe post-tuberculous kyphotic deformity.
