Comparison of 1-Stage Versus 2-Stage Anterior and Posterior Spinal Fusion for Severe and Rigid Idiopathic Scoliosis–A Randomized Prospective Study

STUDY DESIGN A randomized prospective study. OBJECTIVE To compare safety, efficacy, and cost between 1-stage and 2-stage anterior and posterior spinal fusion in treating rigid thoracic adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Retrospective study issued different outcomes comparing 1-stage with 2-stage surgical procedures in treating neuromuscular and congenital scoliosis. A randomized prospective study in AIS has rarely been reported. METHODS.: Twenty-four patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group A underwent a 2-stage procedure, group B a 1-stage procedure. Inclusion criteria were: (1) AIS; (2) rigid single thoracic curve, > or =90 degrees on anteroposterior and > or =60 degrees on side bending view; and (3) pulmonary function tests, vital capacity > or =500 mL or FEV1 > or =50%. Exclusion criteria were: (1) curves either