Vertebral column decancellation in Pott’s deformity: use of Surgimap Spine for preoperative surgical planning, retrospective review of 18 patients

BACKGROUND In the late stage of Spinal tuberculosis, the bony destruction and vertebral collapse often leads to significant kyphosis, presenting clinically as a painful gibbus deformity, with increased instability, vertebral body translations and increased risk of neurologic involvement. Vertebral column decancellation is thought to be suitable for most patients with severe rigid kyphosis. Surgimap Spine, could offer a pragmatic graphical method for the surgical planning of osteotomies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Vertebral column decancellation planned preoperatively with the computer software-assistance in the patients with Pott's kyphosis. METHODS Between May 2012 and May 2015, 18 patients with Pott's kyphosis underwent the Vertebral column decancellation using Surgimap Spine for preoperative surgical planning. Preoperative and postoperative Konstam's angle, sagittal vertical angle, lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, pelvic tilt and pelvic incidence were measured. Visual analog scale and American Spinal Injury Association were documented. RESULTS The Konstam's angles decreased from 88.1° (range, 70-105°) preoperatively to 18.5° (range, 7-31°) (P < 0.01). All patients reached the physiological limits at the final follow-up. The mean VAS score was reduced from preoperative 7.1 (range, 6-8) to 1.8 (range, 1-3, P < 0.01) and the ODI improved from 65.8% (range, 58-74%) to 20.2% (range, 12-38%, P < 0.01). At final follow-up, there was radiographic evidence of solid fusion at the osteotomy site and fixed segments in all patients. Neurological function improved from ASIA scale D to E in 5 patients. The patients were followed up for 30.4 months on average. CONCLUSION Vertebral column decancellation is an effective treatment option for severe Pott's kyphosis. The surgical planning software Surgimap Spine can be a reliable and helpful tool that provides a simplified method to evaluate and analyze the spino-pelvic parameters and simulate the osteotomy procedure. According to individual character, the appropriate surgery strategy should be selected.