Expandable Cages for Thoracic Spinal Deformity

Abstract

Correction of kyphotic deformity of the spine is quite complex, especially in the thoracic spine. A variety of techniques exist for correction of thoracic kyphotic deformity; however, the controversy continues regarding the most efficacious approaches toward improving adequate sagittal balance, obtaining successful fusion of the construct, and providing an adequate scaffold anteriorly to tolerate the forces placed upon the anterior spine. Additionally, these goals must be accomplished while minimizing patient neurological morbidity. The use of an expandable thoracic cage to reconstruct the anterior and middle columns has proven to be a successful method of correcting thoracic kyphotic deformity, especially since 80 % of the axial vector load placed upon the spine is specifically along these particular columns [1].