Introduction: Vertebral column resection is a major reconstructive procedure used in deformity correction. In this study, we demonstrate that Minimally invasive corpectomy and reconstruction provides partial correction of spinal kyphotic deformities secondary to various pathologies.
Methods: Clinical Case series of 10 patients undergoing minimally invasive lateral extra-cavitary vertebral column resection and anterior column reconstruction between 2008-2013 in a single institution. Clinical and radiological follow up was performed. Pre and post op angles in the sagittal plane were calculated using Surgimap deformity software.
Results: 10 pts age range between 31-92 yrs, 5 m and 5 f. Deformity cause was either due to pathological fracture or infection or acute trauma. Eight patients underwent 1 level corpectomy and 2 patients had 2 level corpectomies. Partial correction of sagittal alignment was achieved in all 10 cases. Mean correction of sagittal angle was 8.4 degrees (range 3-16 degrees)
Conclusions: While the primary goal was spinal cord decompression and spinal column stabilization in this small series of patients with secondary deformity, we demonstrate that focal sagittal deformity correction is feasible using minimally invasive vertebral column resection and reconstruction. The complex technique and lack of developed instrumentation limit widespread application to selected cases.
Patient Care: Increasing awareness of the benefits and range of applications of minimally invasive techniques in complex spine reconstruction would lead to reduced patient surgical morbidity.
Learning Objectives: Understand the clinical settings in which use of minimally invasive vertebral column resection could be applied.
Appreciate the outcomes and degree of sagittal deformity correction using minimally invasive lateral extracavitary approach for vertebral column resection.