Recent developments in scoliosis surgery

SummaryTraditional surgical correction of spinal deformity has involved relatively long instrumentation and fusion techniques, producing a straighter but stiffer spine. In the infant this approach leads to a shorter trunk. Current surgical techniques may also have an adverse effect on pulmonary function. In order to minimize the latter, strategies have been devised to limit exposure related morbidity. These have largely focused on minimally invasive and thoracoscopic techniques, and endoscopic techniques of spinal instrumentation and scoliosis correction are now well established.Non-fusion techniques in the growing spine, to maximize or modulate future growth potential, are being explored. Their potential advantages are obviation of the need for early fusion and countering of the resultant relative axial shortening from spinal arthrodesis.