Ten-Year Follow-up Study of Lower Thoracic Hemivertebrae Treated by Convex Fusion and Concave Distraction

Abstract

Although growth-mediated correction was seen in only two cases, this procedure could be recommended for children with severe deformities and decompensation in the lower thoracic spine. It is safer than hemivertebra excision, with less risk of spinal cord injury. The concave distraction produces immediate improvement in the coronal balance, such that there is no need to wait for uncertain growth-mediated correction in patients who undergo convex fusion only.