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Topic:

​

Issue:

Spine

Category:

Congenital

Title:

Functional Outcomes of Congenital Scoliosis at a Mean 35-Year Follow-up Post In Situ Fusion. Revisiting Patients From the 2002 Goldberg et al Study

Author:

Kelly, Martin J. MCh, FRCS; Alberghina, Flavia FEBOT; McCabe, Patrick MSc, FRCS; Goldberg, Caroline J. MD; Fogarty, Esmond E. FRACS, FRCS; Dowling, Frank E. BSc, FRCS; O’Toole, Patrick MCh, FRCS; Noël, Jacques MCh, FEBOT, FRCS; Kiely, Patrick J. FRCS; Moore, David P. MCh, FRCS; Kennedy, James F. MCh, FRCS

Journal:

Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics

Date:

May/June 2024

Reference:

44(5):p e381-e388, DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000002649

Level Of Evidence:

​

# of Patients:

43

Study Type:

Retrospective review with long-term follow-up

Location:

Single institution scoliosis database (1976–2002)

Summary:

Evaluated the long-term clinical and functional outcomes of spinal fusion for congenital scoliosis, revisiting a cohort from a prior study. Investigated demographic, radiographic, surgical, and functional data at an average 35-year follow-up.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of patient records and radiographs. Functional outcomes assessed via SRS 22, EQ5D–5L, and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).

Exclusions:

Patients lost to follow-up or who declined participation.

Results:

Mean age at diagnosis: 3.4 years. Mean age at surgery: 5.8 years. Mean follow-up: 35 years. 12 patients (54%) underwent unplanned return to the operating room (UPROR). Thoracic fusions constituted 77% of surgeries. Functional outcomes: SRS 22: Mean score 4.5/5. EQ5D-5L: Mean score 7.2/15. ODI: Mean score 8% (range 2%-30%). Educational attainment: 45% completed university, 2 with doctorates. Employment: 77% of patients in paid employment.

Conclusions:

This study represents the largest long-term follow-up of congenital scoliosis treated with in situ fusion. Thoracic growth continued post-fusion, and patient-reported outcomes indicate satisfactory quality of life. Superior educational and employment outcomes were observed, and unplanned surgeries in adulthood were rare.

Relevance:

Limitations:

Perspective:

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