Gantner AS et al. – This study determined spinal deformity in scoliotic children and evaluated correction potential of vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) implants at several time points of treatment, particularly after long–term follow–up (f/u). The results demonstrated that implantation of the VEPTR device in children with spinal deformity sufficiently corrected the deformity in all planes. A long–term f/u showed a slightly increased and a well–controlled scoliosis; however, the deterioration of hyperkyphosis was not prevented by the implant system. In addition, pelvic obliquity was well balanced and spinal lengthening was achieved during long–term f/u.

Methods

• Retrospective case series of 32 children with spinal deformity and VEPTR treatment.
• Clinical and radiological data were analyzed pre–and post VEPTR implantation and every 2 years during the f/u period.

Results

• Thoracic and lumbar curves were corrected significantly after VEPTR implantation, and were found to be stable at 2.8–year f/u and increased at 5.5–year f/u. However, cervical scoliosis was not found to be affected by the treatment.
• The sagittal profile initially improved both in kyphosis and lordosis. However, hyperkyphosis deteriorated beyond the initial deformity at 5.5 year f/u.