MIS in Adolescent Deformity

Abstract

The prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is reported to be 2–3 %, with approximately less than 0.1 % of all adolescents having curves greater than 40°. The goals of surgical treatment in the setting of AIS remain threefold: (1) to prevent progression of the deformity by obtaining a solid arthrodesis, (2) to limit the extent of the fusion, and (3) to obtain a three-dimensional correction of the deformity to achieve a balanced spine in all three planes.The rationale of minimally invasive spine surgery is to try and minimize the approach-related morbidity inherent in the current available techniques for this patient population. This chapter outlines the indications, technique, early results and some of the limitations of MIS in adolescent deformity; while stressing the importance of longer-term follow-up of MIS in the setting of AIS.