Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-10-07DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01195-9
Alekos A Theologis, Jason DePhillips, Izabella T Lachcik, Jonathan M Mahoney, Brandon S Bucklen
Purpose: To biomechanically compare screw strains above and below a vertebral column resection (VCR) during segmental compression (SC) and cantilever bending (CB) performed via traditional methods and a novel, construct-to-construct accessory rod ("rail") technique.
Methods: Eight cadaveric torsos underwent a VCR with 250 kyphosis at T8 with pedicle screws implanted three levels above and below the VCR (T5-7; T9-11). Four screws (T6, T7, T9, T10) were instrumented with strain gauges to capture screw strains during SC and CB. Both deformity corrective maneuvers were performed over a traditional construct (central rod) and over a construct-to-construct accessory ("rail") rod. Real-time screw strains were collected and peak strains were compared between corrective techniques.
Results: Strains in screws closest to the VCR were significantly less during "rail" compression compared to traditional SC (T7: p = 0.015). Maximum screw strains were significantly lower during "rail" SC and CB compared to traditional SC (T6: p = 0.037; T7: p = 0.015) and CB (T6: p = 0.018; T9: p < 0.001). Total screw strain was more evenly distributed over all screws during "rail" compression and CB compared to traditional techniques, which concentrated strain at individual screws adjacent to the VCR.
Conclusions: Performing segmental compression and cantilever bending across a lateral accessory construct-to-construct ("rail") rod resulted in significantly lower strain on individual pedicle screws adjacent to a thoracic VCR compared to traditional SC and CB. As such, the "rail" may lessen risk of screw pull-out and screw plough during maneuvers to correct spinal deformities across a VCR.
目的:从生物力学角度比较椎体切除术(VCR)在节段压缩(SC)和悬臂弯曲(CB)期间,通过传统方法和一种新型的结构对结构附属杆(“rail”)技术进行的螺钉上下应变。方法:8具尸体在T8处行椎弓根椎弓根螺钉植入椎弓根椎弓根螺钉,椎弓根椎弓根螺钉植入椎弓根椎弓根螺钉上下三节位(T5-7; T9-11)。4个螺钉(T6, T7, T9, T10)在SC和CB过程中使用应变片测量螺钉应变。两种畸形矫正操作均在传统结构体(中心杆)和结构体对结构体附件(“轨道”)杆上进行。实时采集螺旋应变并比较两种矫正方法的峰值应变。结果:与传统SC相比,靠近VCR的螺钉在“导轨”压缩期间的应变明显减少(T7: p = 0.015)。与传统的椎弓根置换术(T6: p = 0.037; T7: p = 0.015)和椎弓根置换术(T6: p = 0.018; T9: p)相比,“轨道”置换术和椎弓根置换术的最大螺钉应变显著降低(T6: p = 0.018; T9: p)。结论:与传统的椎弓根置换术和椎弓根置换术相比,通过横向附属结构对结构(“轨道”)棒进行节段压缩和悬臂弯曲可显著降低胸椎弓根置换术相邻椎弓根螺钉的应变。因此,“导轨”可以减少螺钉拔出和螺钉犁的风险,在操作过程中纠正脊柱畸形在VCR。
{"title":"Construct-construct \"rail technique\" decreases screw strain during spinal deformity corrective maneuvers across a thoracic vertebral column resection: a cadaveric analysis.","authors":"Alekos A Theologis, Jason DePhillips, Izabella T Lachcik, Jonathan M Mahoney, Brandon S Bucklen","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01195-9","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01195-9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>To biomechanically compare screw strains above and below a vertebral column resection (VCR) during segmental compression (SC) and cantilever bending (CB) performed via traditional methods and a novel, construct-to-construct accessory rod (\"rail\") technique.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Eight cadaveric torsos underwent a VCR with 25<sup>0</sup> kyphosis at T8 with pedicle screws implanted three levels above and below the VCR (T5-7; T9-11). Four screws (T6, T7, T9, T10) were instrumented with strain gauges to capture screw strains during SC and CB. Both deformity corrective maneuvers were performed over a traditional construct (central rod) and over a construct-to-construct accessory (\"rail\") rod. Real-time screw strains were collected and peak strains were compared between corrective techniques.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Strains in screws closest to the VCR were significantly less during \"rail\" compression compared to traditional SC (T7: p = 0.015). Maximum screw strains were significantly lower during \"rail\" SC and CB compared to traditional SC (T6: p = 0.037; T7: p = 0.015) and CB (T6: p = 0.018; T9: p < 0.001). Total screw strain was more evenly distributed over all screws during \"rail\" compression and CB compared to traditional techniques, which concentrated strain at individual screws adjacent to the VCR.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Performing segmental compression and cantilever bending across a lateral accessory construct-to-construct (\"rail\") rod resulted in significantly lower strain on individual pedicle screws adjacent to a thoracic VCR compared to traditional SC and CB. As such, the \"rail\" may lessen risk of screw pull-out and screw plough during maneuvers to correct spinal deformities across a VCR.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"39-47"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12815982/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145239417","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01155-3
Sabrina Donzelli, Peter Lafranca, Maarten van Smeden, René Castelein, Tom Schlösser
{"title":"Correction: What can we learn from scoliosis in children with the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome? Prognostic factors at pre-adolescent age for fast progressive, mild and self-resolving forms during adolescence.","authors":"Sabrina Donzelli, Peter Lafranca, Maarten van Smeden, René Castelein, Tom Schlösser","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01155-3","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01155-3","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"311"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12816111/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144967842","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-09-08DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01174-0
Julia H E Holleman, Hanneke M van West, Thomas Q M Vu, Max Reijman, Joost P H J Rutges
Purpose: Screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using the Adam Forward Bending Test (AFBT) remains controversial, resulting in the discontinuation of scoliosis screening in the Netherlands. This study aims to validate the Scolioscope, a simplified version of the Scoliometer, for detecting scoliosis in a home setting.
Methods: A validation study was conducted at the orthopedic outpatient clinic of Erasmus Medical Center Sophia Children's Hospital in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Patients aged 9-18 years with or without AIS and capable of performing the AFBT were included. The Scolioscope measurement of the parents was compared with the Scoliometer measured by an orthopedic surgeon. After unsatisfactory results with the initial Scolioscope version, a revised version was developed and tested.
Results: Among 100 patients included in the study, 79 had scoliosis. The revised version of the Scolioscope demonstrated a positive predictive value of 97%, a negative predictive value of 89%, sensitivity of 94%, and specificity of 94%. Parental measurements showed no variation, with an intra-observer reliability kappa value of 1.
Conclusion: The Scolioscope demonstrates high diagnostic accuracy and precision, making it suitable for use in at-home scoliosis screening programs.
{"title":"The Scolioscope: a home detection tool for measuring axial trunk rotation in scoliosis-a validation study.","authors":"Julia H E Holleman, Hanneke M van West, Thomas Q M Vu, Max Reijman, Joost P H J Rutges","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01174-0","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01174-0","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using the Adam Forward Bending Test (AFBT) remains controversial, resulting in the discontinuation of scoliosis screening in the Netherlands. This study aims to validate the Scolioscope, a simplified version of the Scoliometer, for detecting scoliosis in a home setting.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A validation study was conducted at the orthopedic outpatient clinic of Erasmus Medical Center Sophia Children's Hospital in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Patients aged 9-18 years with or without AIS and capable of performing the AFBT were included. The Scolioscope measurement of the parents was compared with the Scoliometer measured by an orthopedic surgeon. After unsatisfactory results with the initial Scolioscope version, a revised version was developed and tested.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among 100 patients included in the study, 79 had scoliosis. The revised version of the Scolioscope demonstrated a positive predictive value of 97%, a negative predictive value of 89%, sensitivity of 94%, and specificity of 94%. Parental measurements showed no variation, with an intra-observer reliability kappa value of 1.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The Scolioscope demonstrates high diagnostic accuracy and precision, making it suitable for use in at-home scoliosis screening programs.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"85-92"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12816053/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145024194","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-08-28DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01161-5
J J M Renkens, A Willems, M Reijman, P de Baat, L W L de Klerk, J P H J Rutges
Purpose: Proximal fixation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) surgery is a matter of discussion. All screw (AS) constructs provide better coronal correction than hybrid constructs, but high thoracic pedicle screw placement can be challenging. This study investigated whether an AS-construct provides better correction than a proximal double hook-claw (PH) construct.
Methods: AIS patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) were randomized to AS-construct or PH-construct from 2016 to 2020 with a two-year follow-up. Primary outcome is the main thoracic (MT) Cobb angle correction after two years. Secondary outcomes are thoracic kyphosis (TK), proximal junctional angle (PJA), proximal thoracic (PT) Cobb angle, SRS-22r, and complications after two years.
Results: 60 patients (30 AS, 30 PH) were included. No baseline differences were found. Preoperative MT Cobb angle was 62° ± 11° (AS) vs. 65° ± 12° (PH). There was no statistical difference in MT Cobb angle after two years: 25° ± 9° (AS) vs. 27° ± 7° (PH) (p = 0.247). No difference in PT Cobb angle was found: 20° ± 9° (AS) vs. 21° ± 9° (PH) and TK: 23° ± 9° (AS) vs. 22° ± 7° (PH). SRS-22r improved in both groups with no statistical difference: 3.9 ± 0.5 to 4.3 ± 0.5 (AS) vs. 3.7 ± 0.5 to 4.3 ± 0.5 (PH). There were 13 complications (ten patients) in AS group and 17 (13 patients) in PH group, including 1 major complication in each group (deep wound infection).
Conclusion: AS-construct does not provide better coronal Cobb correction after two years after surgery. A PH-construct is a reliable and safe option for proximal fixation AIS patients. TRN: NTR-NL5552 (2016).
Trial registration: Overview of medical research in the Netherlands (OMON): NL-OMON43852.
{"title":"Double claw construct with hooks for proximal fixation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a randomized controlled trial.","authors":"J J M Renkens, A Willems, M Reijman, P de Baat, L W L de Klerk, J P H J Rutges","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01161-5","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01161-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Proximal fixation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) surgery is a matter of discussion. All screw (AS) constructs provide better coronal correction than hybrid constructs, but high thoracic pedicle screw placement can be challenging. This study investigated whether an AS-construct provides better correction than a proximal double hook-claw (PH) construct.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>AIS patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) were randomized to AS-construct or PH-construct from 2016 to 2020 with a two-year follow-up. Primary outcome is the main thoracic (MT) Cobb angle correction after two years. Secondary outcomes are thoracic kyphosis (TK), proximal junctional angle (PJA), proximal thoracic (PT) Cobb angle, SRS-22r, and complications after two years.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>60 patients (30 AS, 30 PH) were included. No baseline differences were found. Preoperative MT Cobb angle was 62° ± 11° (AS) vs. 65° ± 12° (PH). There was no statistical difference in MT Cobb angle after two years: 25° ± 9° (AS) vs. 27° ± 7° (PH) (p = 0.247). No difference in PT Cobb angle was found: 20° ± 9° (AS) vs. 21° ± 9° (PH) and TK: 23° ± 9° (AS) vs. 22° ± 7° (PH). SRS-22r improved in both groups with no statistical difference: 3.9 ± 0.5 to 4.3 ± 0.5 (AS) vs. 3.7 ± 0.5 to 4.3 ± 0.5 (PH). There were 13 complications (ten patients) in AS group and 17 (13 patients) in PH group, including 1 major complication in each group (deep wound infection).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>AS-construct does not provide better coronal Cobb correction after two years after surgery. A PH-construct is a reliable and safe option for proximal fixation AIS patients. TRN: NTR-NL5552 (2016).</p><p><strong>Trial registration: </strong>Overview of medical research in the Netherlands (OMON): NL-OMON43852.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"119-128"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12815994/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144967775","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-08-20DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01168-y
Matthew A Halanski, Brittney Kokinos, Ellen Leiferman, Minhao Zhou, Yousuf Abubakr, Max Twedt, Cameron Jeffers, David Bennett, Susan Hamman, Jennifer Frank, Melanie E Boeyer, Grace D O'Connell, Thomas Crenshaw
Purpose: To measure the effects of posterior vertebral tethering (pVBT) on disc pressure and the effect of tether tension on growth modulation in the hyperkyphotic swine model, and to use computational modeling to predict growth modulation in scenarios unable to be tested in the animal model.
Methods: Swine were divided into non-operative control, single-level apical pVBT, or multi-level posterior pVBT groups. Pulsed fluorochrome labeling was used to measure regional vertebral growth rates, digital radiographs to assess changes in vertebral alignment, and pressure transducers to measure intervertebral disc pressures. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to simulate tether-mediated disc space correction.
Results: Kyphotic swine had significantly greater angular kyphosis than control swine at 11- and 13-weeks, and deformities increased from 2 to 5 months of age. At 2-weeks post-operative, high-tension single level tethering resulted in significantly greater growth modulation than low-tension (53 ± 43% vs - 1 ± 15%, p = 0.03) or non-operative controls (p = 0.01), however, at 2-4 weeks, growth modulation was normalized between the low and high tensioned cohorts (14 ± 11% vs 10 ± 10%, p = 0.6). The FEA predicted that growth plate stress distributions worsen as the average disc height post-realignment is decreased.
Conclusion: Increased tether tension results in more effective early growth modulation in the young flexible spine without increasing disc pressure, however, these tension-related benefits are transitory as growth modulation becomes load-independent with time. Computational modeling predicted that in the less flexible spine, vertebral growth may be arrested rather than modulated.
目的:测量后椎体栓系术(pVBT)对椎间盘压力的影响以及栓系张力对过度后凸猪模型生长调节的影响,并利用计算模型预测无法在动物模型中测试的情况下的生长调节。方法:将猪分为非手术对照组、单节段根尖pVBT组和多节段后路pVBT组。脉冲荧光标记用于测量局部椎体生长速率,数字x线片用于评估椎体排列的变化,压力传感器用于测量椎间盘压力。采用有限元分析(FEA)模拟系索介导的椎间盘间隙矫正。结果:后凸猪在11周和13周时角型后凸明显大于对照猪,2 ~ 5月龄时畸形增加。在术后2周,高张力单水平系索导致的生长调节明显大于低张力组(53±43% vs - 1±15%,p = 0.03)或非手术对照组(p = 0.01),然而,在2-4周,低张力组和高张力组之间的生长调节正常化(14±11% vs 10±10%,p = 0.6)。有限元分析预测,随着调整后平均盘高的降低,生长板应力分布恶化。结论:在不增加椎间盘压力的情况下,增高的系索张力可使年轻柔韧性脊柱的早期生长调节更有效,然而,随着时间的推移,生长调节变得与负荷无关,这些与张力相关的益处是短暂的。计算模型预测,在较不灵活的脊柱中,椎体生长可能被阻止而不是被调节。
{"title":"The growth modulating effects of tether tension on vertebral growth are biphasic: a study of posterior vertebral body tethering (pVBT) in a novel kyphotic porcine model.","authors":"Matthew A Halanski, Brittney Kokinos, Ellen Leiferman, Minhao Zhou, Yousuf Abubakr, Max Twedt, Cameron Jeffers, David Bennett, Susan Hamman, Jennifer Frank, Melanie E Boeyer, Grace D O'Connell, Thomas Crenshaw","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01168-y","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01168-y","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>To measure the effects of posterior vertebral tethering (pVBT) on disc pressure and the effect of tether tension on growth modulation in the hyperkyphotic swine model, and to use computational modeling to predict growth modulation in scenarios unable to be tested in the animal model.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Swine were divided into non-operative control, single-level apical pVBT, or multi-level posterior pVBT groups. Pulsed fluorochrome labeling was used to measure regional vertebral growth rates, digital radiographs to assess changes in vertebral alignment, and pressure transducers to measure intervertebral disc pressures. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to simulate tether-mediated disc space correction.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Kyphotic swine had significantly greater angular kyphosis than control swine at 11- and 13-weeks, and deformities increased from 2 to 5 months of age. At 2-weeks post-operative, high-tension single level tethering resulted in significantly greater growth modulation than low-tension (53 ± 43% vs - 1 ± 15%, p = 0.03) or non-operative controls (p = 0.01), however, at 2-4 weeks, growth modulation was normalized between the low and high tensioned cohorts (14 ± 11% vs 10 ± 10%, p = 0.6). The FEA predicted that growth plate stress distributions worsen as the average disc height post-realignment is decreased.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Increased tether tension results in more effective early growth modulation in the young flexible spine without increasing disc pressure, however, these tension-related benefits are transitory as growth modulation becomes load-independent with time. Computational modeling predicted that in the less flexible spine, vertebral growth may be arrested rather than modulated.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"19-30"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12815995/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144967830","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
<p><strong>Objective: </strong>To assess whether using stable vertebra on push-prone traction radiographs for selecting the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients with Lenke types 3C and 6C undergoing posterior spinal surgery can preserve more lumbar motion segments while still achieving satisfactory surgical outcomes.</p><p><strong>Background: </strong>AIS patients requiring surgical treatment typically present with progressive curves exceeding 40° and are skeletally immature. This study specifically focuses on AIS patients exhibiting Lenke curve types 3C and 6C, which include structural thoracic as well as thoracolumbar and lumbar curves. The selection of the LIV remains a contentious issue due to concerns about distal adding-on and the potential for spinal imbalance postoperatively. Existing literature suggests that longer fusion constructs and positioning the LIV below L3 can lead to significant functional limitations and accelerated disc degeneration. While Lenke advocated for identifying the stable vertebra (SV) as the LIV, our recent study indicates that push-prone traction radiographs provide superior predictability for correcting postoperative spinal alignment. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using the stable vertebra identified through push-prone traction radiographs as the LIV in preserving segmental motion during posterior spinal surgery for managing Lenke type 3C and 6C curves.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>AIS patients with Lenke type 3C and 6C who underwent posterior spinal surgery between 2021 and 2024 were enrolled in the study. Preoperative 36-inch whole spine radiographs, including push-prone traction view, were obtained for curve flexibility assessment. The lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) was determined by identifying the stable vertebra (SV) on push-prone traction radiographs. Demographic data, including sex, age, BMI, Lenke's curve type, and pre- and postoperative major coronal Cobb angle, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and C7 to central sacral vertical line (C7-CSVL), were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess the differences in curve magnitudes between pre- and postoperative measurements.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Thirty-six AIS patients (33 female and 3 male) with a mean age of 13.9 ± 2.2 years were included in this study, with a mean follow-up period of 28.4 months. Preoperatively, the cohort presented with Lenke type 3C (24 out of 36) and Lenke type 6C (12 out of 36). The preoperative thoracic curve was corrected to an average of 5.7°, demonstrating an average correction rate of 89%. Similarly, the preoperative lumbar curve was corrected to an average of 5° with a correction rate of 90%.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Push-prone traction radiographs may serve as an alternative method for determining the optimal LIV level in patients with Lenke type 3C and 6C. Identifying stable vertebra on push-prone traction radiographs
{"title":"Utilizing stable vertebra on push-prone traction radiographs for the determination of the lowest instrumented vertebra: a novel approach for AIS patients with Lenke type 3C and 6C.","authors":"Tinnakorn Pluemvitayaporn, Suttinont Surapuchong, Nuttavut Chavalparit, Piyabuth Kittithamvongs, Warot Ratanakoosakul, Kitjapat Tiracharnvut, Chaiwat Piyasakulkaew, Sombat Kunakornsawat","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01188-8","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01188-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>To assess whether using stable vertebra on push-prone traction radiographs for selecting the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients with Lenke types 3C and 6C undergoing posterior spinal surgery can preserve more lumbar motion segments while still achieving satisfactory surgical outcomes.</p><p><strong>Background: </strong>AIS patients requiring surgical treatment typically present with progressive curves exceeding 40° and are skeletally immature. This study specifically focuses on AIS patients exhibiting Lenke curve types 3C and 6C, which include structural thoracic as well as thoracolumbar and lumbar curves. The selection of the LIV remains a contentious issue due to concerns about distal adding-on and the potential for spinal imbalance postoperatively. Existing literature suggests that longer fusion constructs and positioning the LIV below L3 can lead to significant functional limitations and accelerated disc degeneration. While Lenke advocated for identifying the stable vertebra (SV) as the LIV, our recent study indicates that push-prone traction radiographs provide superior predictability for correcting postoperative spinal alignment. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using the stable vertebra identified through push-prone traction radiographs as the LIV in preserving segmental motion during posterior spinal surgery for managing Lenke type 3C and 6C curves.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>AIS patients with Lenke type 3C and 6C who underwent posterior spinal surgery between 2021 and 2024 were enrolled in the study. Preoperative 36-inch whole spine radiographs, including push-prone traction view, were obtained for curve flexibility assessment. The lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) was determined by identifying the stable vertebra (SV) on push-prone traction radiographs. Demographic data, including sex, age, BMI, Lenke's curve type, and pre- and postoperative major coronal Cobb angle, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and C7 to central sacral vertical line (C7-CSVL), were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess the differences in curve magnitudes between pre- and postoperative measurements.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Thirty-six AIS patients (33 female and 3 male) with a mean age of 13.9 ± 2.2 years were included in this study, with a mean follow-up period of 28.4 months. Preoperatively, the cohort presented with Lenke type 3C (24 out of 36) and Lenke type 6C (12 out of 36). The preoperative thoracic curve was corrected to an average of 5.7°, demonstrating an average correction rate of 89%. Similarly, the preoperative lumbar curve was corrected to an average of 5° with a correction rate of 90%.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Push-prone traction radiographs may serve as an alternative method for determining the optimal LIV level in patients with Lenke type 3C and 6C. Identifying stable vertebra on push-prone traction radiographs","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"103-110"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145114199","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-09-20DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01190-0
Patrick P Nian, Vishnu Deep Chandran, Colson Zucker, Peter Cirrincione, Zhenkun Gu, Silvia Zanini, Jennifer Jezequel, Bridget Assip, Sherry Backus, Dara Jones, David Scher, Paulo Selber
Purpose: Sagittal spinopelvic alignment (SPA) is originally calculated by the algebraic expression pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis (PI-LL), heralded numerous clinically relevant radiographic measures of spine alignment, e.g., T4-L1-pelvic angle. SPA malalignment compromises spine fusion outcomes and quality of life of typically aging persons. This study investigated gait and SPA of patients with cerebral palsy (CP) using multiple sagittal radiographic measures.
Methods: Twenty-three patients, mean age 35 years with CP at GMFCS I-II were included. Radiographic measures included C2PA, T4PA, L1PA. PI-LL and T4-L1PA mismatch were defined as > 10°/ < - 10° and > 4°/ < - 4°, respectively. Trunk, pelvis, hips, and knees kinematics were obtained. Statistical parameter mapping (SPM) assessed kinematic differences throughout the gait cycle. Multivariable linear regression assessed the relationship between gait and radiographic parameters.
Results: Fourteen and eleven patients (60.9% and 47.8%) presented with PI-LL and T4-L1PA mismatch, respectively. PI-LL mismatched patients demonstrated significantly lower knee flexion during gait. T4-L1PA mismatched patients demonstrated increased anterior pelvic tilt, hip flexion, and decreased knee flexion during gait, which was consistent with SPM analysis. Multivariable linear regression showed T4-L1PA, C2PA, and anterior pelvic tilt were associated with knee flexion.
Conclusion: This is the first study to evaluate SPA parameters and gait kinematics in patients with CP. This observational and preliminary data suggested that SPA and knee flexion in gait may be associated. Whether the variations in gait patterns are coping mechanisms or the cause for SPA malalignment requires clarification. The implications of SPA malalignment on the quality of life of this population warrant further investigations.
{"title":"Spinopelvic alignment and sagittal gait kinematics of adult patients with cerebral palsy.","authors":"Patrick P Nian, Vishnu Deep Chandran, Colson Zucker, Peter Cirrincione, Zhenkun Gu, Silvia Zanini, Jennifer Jezequel, Bridget Assip, Sherry Backus, Dara Jones, David Scher, Paulo Selber","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01190-0","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01190-0","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Sagittal spinopelvic alignment (SPA) is originally calculated by the algebraic expression pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis (PI-LL), heralded numerous clinically relevant radiographic measures of spine alignment, e.g., T4-L1-pelvic angle. SPA malalignment compromises spine fusion outcomes and quality of life of typically aging persons. This study investigated gait and SPA of patients with cerebral palsy (CP) using multiple sagittal radiographic measures.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Twenty-three patients, mean age 35 years with CP at GMFCS I-II were included. Radiographic measures included C2PA, T4PA, L1PA. PI-LL and T4-L1PA mismatch were defined as > 10°/ < - 10° and > 4°/ < - 4°, respectively. Trunk, pelvis, hips, and knees kinematics were obtained. Statistical parameter mapping (SPM) assessed kinematic differences throughout the gait cycle. Multivariable linear regression assessed the relationship between gait and radiographic parameters.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Fourteen and eleven patients (60.9% and 47.8%) presented with PI-LL and T4-L1PA mismatch, respectively. PI-LL mismatched patients demonstrated significantly lower knee flexion during gait. T4-L1PA mismatched patients demonstrated increased anterior pelvic tilt, hip flexion, and decreased knee flexion during gait, which was consistent with SPM analysis. Multivariable linear regression showed T4-L1PA, C2PA, and anterior pelvic tilt were associated with knee flexion.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This is the first study to evaluate SPA parameters and gait kinematics in patients with CP. This observational and preliminary data suggested that SPA and knee flexion in gait may be associated. Whether the variations in gait patterns are coping mechanisms or the cause for SPA malalignment requires clarification. The implications of SPA malalignment on the quality of life of this population warrant further investigations.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"215-226"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145102998","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01196-8
Daniel C Gabriel, Nicole D Agaronnik, Danielle Cook, Daniel Hedequist, Craig M Birch, M Timothy Hresko, Grant D Hogue
Purpose: To investigate whether socioeconomic factors may predict brace adherence and curve magnitude in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).
Methods: Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) who received a Boston Brace 3D (BB3D) thoracic-lumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO) from January 2014 to October 2019 at a single center were reviewed. Brace adherence was objectively measured using temperature sensors embedded in orthotics. Brace wear was reported at 4 to 6 weeks (weaning period), 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months since the first brace fitting. We abstracted demographic and socioeconomic variables including age, sex, race, ethnicity, median household income, insurance status, and pre-existing mental health conditions. Linear mixed-effect modeling was used to determine changes in adherence and curve magnitude at each visit.
Results: Among 62 patients (84% female, 63% White, 11% publicly insured), average adherence peaked at 6 months (79%) and declined to 64% by 24 months. Our findings suggest that males, on average, had 16% lower adherence to bracing compared to females (p = 0.035). Age at the pre-brace visit was found to be a statistically significant predictor of curve change at the 24-month follow-up, with each 1-year age difference associated with a three-degree increase in curve magnitude (p = 0.006). Other sociodemographic variables were not significantly associated with adherence or curve change.
Conclusion: Despite declining adherence over time, curve magnitude remained stable in most patients, aligning with bracing success criteria. Gender may predict brace adherence, while age may predict curve progression. Analysis of sociodemographic factors in this limited cohort suggests potential disparities in non-operative management that warrant further investigation in more diverse populations. Such insights may inform targeted counseling strategies to optimize long-term outcomes.
{"title":"Curve stabilization at 2 years despite declining brace adherence in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a single-center cohort with sociodemographic analysis.","authors":"Daniel C Gabriel, Nicole D Agaronnik, Danielle Cook, Daniel Hedequist, Craig M Birch, M Timothy Hresko, Grant D Hogue","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01196-8","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01196-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>To investigate whether socioeconomic factors may predict brace adherence and curve magnitude in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) who received a Boston Brace 3D (BB3D) thoracic-lumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO) from January 2014 to October 2019 at a single center were reviewed. Brace adherence was objectively measured using temperature sensors embedded in orthotics. Brace wear was reported at 4 to 6 weeks (weaning period), 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months since the first brace fitting. We abstracted demographic and socioeconomic variables including age, sex, race, ethnicity, median household income, insurance status, and pre-existing mental health conditions. Linear mixed-effect modeling was used to determine changes in adherence and curve magnitude at each visit.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among 62 patients (84% female, 63% White, 11% publicly insured), average adherence peaked at 6 months (79%) and declined to 64% by 24 months. Our findings suggest that males, on average, had 16% lower adherence to bracing compared to females (p = 0.035). Age at the pre-brace visit was found to be a statistically significant predictor of curve change at the 24-month follow-up, with each 1-year age difference associated with a three-degree increase in curve magnitude (p = 0.006). Other sociodemographic variables were not significantly associated with adherence or curve change.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Despite declining adherence over time, curve magnitude remained stable in most patients, aligning with bracing success criteria. Gender may predict brace adherence, while age may predict curve progression. Analysis of sociodemographic factors in this limited cohort suggests potential disparities in non-operative management that warrant further investigation in more diverse populations. Such insights may inform targeted counseling strategies to optimize long-term outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"59-65"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145303299","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-10-17DOI: 10.1007/s43390-025-01198-6
Luis Torres-Gonzalez, Sara J Morgan, Christopher D Seaver, Rhonda G Cady, Zelphia C Brown, Maykala J Williams, Daniel J Miller
Purpose: To assess potential disparities in care for non-ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP) and associated neuromuscular scoliosis treated at a quaternary pediatric hospital.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included non-ambulatory children CP who received spinal deformity surgery between 01/2012 and 12/2022. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data were collected. Relationships between demographic factors and clinical/radiographic data were assessed using Fisher's Exact Test, Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test, Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA, and linear regression models.
Results: Of 502 children identified, 328 met eligibility criteria. The mean age of the sample was 9.8 ± 4.0 years, 59% were male. On presentation, the average major coronal curve magnitude was 46 ± 23˚. Most (70%) were White, 13% were Black, 6% were Hispanic or Latino, and the remaining participants were Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Alaska Native, or declined to answer. Most spoke English (89%). Just under half (45%) had both government and commercial insurance and 24% had only government insurance. Black compared to White race (p = .03), government compared to commercial insurance (p = .02), and farther distance from hospital (p < .001) were associated with larger curve magnitudes at presentation, after adjustment for covariates. Non-English language (p = .002) was associated with longer time from surgical recommendation to surgery, after adjustment for covariates.
Conclusions: Health disparities were identified related to ethnicity, race, preferred language, and geographical distance from the hospital for children with CP and neuromuscular scoliosis. These findings highlight the need for development of standardized criteria for surveillance, imaging, and referral to reduce health disparities for this specific population.
{"title":"Disparities in spinal deformity surgery care for children with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular scoliosis.","authors":"Luis Torres-Gonzalez, Sara J Morgan, Christopher D Seaver, Rhonda G Cady, Zelphia C Brown, Maykala J Williams, Daniel J Miller","doi":"10.1007/s43390-025-01198-6","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s43390-025-01198-6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>To assess potential disparities in care for non-ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP) and associated neuromuscular scoliosis treated at a quaternary pediatric hospital.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This retrospective cohort study included non-ambulatory children CP who received spinal deformity surgery between 01/2012 and 12/2022. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data were collected. Relationships between demographic factors and clinical/radiographic data were assessed using Fisher's Exact Test, Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test, Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA, and linear regression models.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Of 502 children identified, 328 met eligibility criteria. The mean age of the sample was 9.8 ± 4.0 years, 59% were male. On presentation, the average major coronal curve magnitude was 46 ± 23˚. Most (70%) were White, 13% were Black, 6% were Hispanic or Latino, and the remaining participants were Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Alaska Native, or declined to answer. Most spoke English (89%). Just under half (45%) had both government and commercial insurance and 24% had only government insurance. Black compared to White race (p = .03), government compared to commercial insurance (p = .02), and farther distance from hospital (p < .001) were associated with larger curve magnitudes at presentation, after adjustment for covariates. Non-English language (p = .002) was associated with longer time from surgical recommendation to surgery, after adjustment for covariates.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Health disparities were identified related to ethnicity, race, preferred language, and geographical distance from the hospital for children with CP and neuromuscular scoliosis. These findings highlight the need for development of standardized criteria for surveillance, imaging, and referral to reduce health disparities for this specific population.</p>","PeriodicalId":21796,"journal":{"name":"Spine deformity","volume":" ","pages":"205-214"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12816115/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145313534","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}