[Long-term results of posterior correction and fusion of scoliosis using the Cotrel-Dubousset instrumentation].

Aim: Radiographic analysis of long-term results following CDI.
Methods: Retrospective analysis of radiographs of 43 patients with idiopathic right thoracic scoliosis with an average follow-up of 82 months. Extensive radiographic analysis with special regard to curve correction in the frontal and sagittal planes.
Results: The average Cobb-angle of the preoperative primary curve was 61.6 degrees (min.: 40 degrees, max.: 84 degrees ), the correction postoperatively was 51.1 % representing 29.9 degrees. Due to the loss of correction of 7.1 degrees, the overall outcome was 39.9 % by the time of follow-up. More than 90 % of the loss of correction occurred within the first 2 years. The lumbar secondary curve correction was 47.2 % (preop.: 37.5 degrees; postop.: 19.8 degrees ). Average fusion length was 11 segments, fusion usually ended two vertebrae below the end vertebra. Translation of the apex was corrected by 38.8 % (preop.: 4.9 cm; postop.: 3.0 cm), tilt of the last instrumented vertebra by 44.2 % (preop.: 18.2 degrees; postop.: 10.16 degrees ). The amount of derotation was negligible (preop.: 24.1 degrees; postop.: 22.6 degrees ). The readjustment of a preoperative pathologic sagittal profile, meaning a thoracic hypokyphosis, was successful in 12 out of 15 cases. Blood loss, duration of operation and complications were documented.
Conclusion: CD-Instrumentation in scoliosis surgery offers a long-lasting suffcient correction of the fronal and a good correction of the sagittal plane. Stability of correction is achieved 2 years after operation.