Efficacy of intervertebral release combined with asymmetric osteotomy in rigid degenerative scoliosis

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of treating patients with rigid degenerative scoliosis by restoring intervertebral balance through a combination of interbody release and asymmetric grade 1 and 2 osteotomy. Method The medical collected clinical and radiographic data of patients with rigid degenerative scoliosis from our department between 2015 and 2022. A total of 60 patients were included in the study, comprising 20 males and 40 females, with an average follow-up period of 30.7 months. Data recorded included surgery duration, blood loss, number of fixed segments, hospital stay, complications, clinical scores, and radiographic parameters. Results The sagittal vertical axis improved from 4.28 ± 1.48 cm preoperatively to 2.90 ± 1.18 cm postoperatively, while the coronal vertical axis improved from 3.29 ± 1.72 cm preoperatively to 1.12 ± 0.62 cm postoperatively. The preoperative coronal Cobb angle was 30.85 ± 7.33°, which improved to 4.14 ± 3.06°postoperatively. Additionally, lumbar lordosis increased from 24.50 ± 17.24°preoperatively to 30.35 ± 6.11°postoperatively. VAS scores for back pain and leg pain, ODI scores, and JOA scores showed varying degrees of improvement. Conclusion Interbody release combined with asymmetric Grade 1 and 2 osteotomy to restore intervertebral balance significantly improves spinal deformity and postoperative functional scores in patients with rigid degenerative scoliosis.