Adult Spinal Deformity

Question 1

What is the most reliable predictor of clinical symptoms in patients with adult spinal deformity?

Answer 1

Sagittal plane balance

Question 2

What degree of curves commonly progress and which do not?

Answer 2

50° commonly progress

Question 3

In those with adult spinal deformity, who should get fusion to sacrum?

Answer 3

Those with L5/S1 pathology; will have increased risk of pseudoarthrosis

Question 4

What is the incidence of major complications following adult spinal deformity surgery?

Answer 4

~10%

Question 5

What are risk factors for non-union in spinal deformity surgery?

Answer 5

1) smoking
2) kyphosis >20 degrees
3) positive sagittal balance greater than 5cm
4) preexisting hip arthritis
5) age greater than 55
6) throacoabdominal approach

Question 6

In patients with adult scoliosis requiring long thoracolumbar fusions, which of the following is the major advantage of extending the fusion to the sacrum as opposed to ending at L5?

Answer 6

Improved correction and maintenance of sagittal balance