Internal thoracoplasty. A new procedure

Abstract

Study design: The efficacy of performing a thoracoplasty from within the thoracotomy during anterior surgery for scoliosis was investigated.

Objectives: Patients were prospectively studied to determine the possible complications and morbidity of the procedure, and were compared to a similar group of patients that previously underwent same-day anterior and posterior procedures for scoliosis, but without thoracoplasty. Description of the technique is presented.

Summary of background data: The seven study patients had uneventful intra- and post-operative courses. For the posterior procedure (CD instrumentation), only morselized rib graft was used, obviating the need for iliac graft.

Results: There was no greater rate or additional types of complications in the study group compared to the control group, except one additional day of thoracotomy tube retention.

Conclusions: When same day anterior and posterior procedures are to be performed for scoliosis, internal thoracoplasty is indicated, as a source of autogenous bone and for cosmesis.