Segmental spinal instrumentation in the management of neuromuscular spinal deformity

Seventeen patients with progressive neuromuscular spinal deformity were critically analyzed. All patients were surgically managed by employing segmental spinal instrumentation with Luque rods accompanied by posterior spinal fusion to sacrum. Satisfactory correction of scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis was achieved. Furthermore, maintainence and production of physiologic postural curves was possible with this method of instrumentation. Head and trunk decompensation and pelvic obliquity were not well controlled in this series. Respiratory complications in this high-risk group were minimal. Partial postoperative immobilization with bivalved thoraco-lumbosacral orthoses (TLSO) was employed in the majority of patients. Segmental spinal instrumentation provides significant benefits to justify its continued use and development.