Subtransverse process wiring: a new technique of segmental spinal fixation of the thoracic spine or in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Abstract

Segmental fixation is the preferred technique for the surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Sublaminar wiring is a widely used, strong type of segmental fixation. The most common drawback of the sublaminar wiring is the risk of neurologic injury. The authors have applied subtransverse wiring for 3 years, and the technique seems promising. To show that subtransverse wiring is a technique strong enough to correct scoliosis curves and does not carry neurologic injury risks. Sublaminar wiring is a commonly used fixation method for posterior fusion in the treatment of scoliosis. Because of its associated risk of neurologic injury, it is mostly recommended for long neuromuscular curves. The authors used the subtransverse wiring technique in 12 cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and followed them for an average of 22 months. The average correction rate was 65%, and correction loss at the end of the follow-up period was 5 degrees. No neurologic complications were encountered. Subtransverse wiring is strong enough to correct scoliotic curves. It requires less operative time and skill and is neurologically safe.