Kyphotic deformity in spinal tuberculosis and its management

Abstract

Spinal tuberculosis is the most common cause of severe kyphosis in many parts of the world. Three percent of patients treated conservatively end up with a deformity greater than 60 degrees which can cause serious cosmetic, psychological, cardio-respiratory and neurological problems. Severe kyphotic deformities are usually the result of childhood spinal deformities and ‘Spine at risk’ radiological signs are helpful to identify children at risk of deformity. In children, a severe type of collapse, termed as ‘Buckling Collapse’ is also noted where the kyphosis is more than 120 degrees. Risk factors for buckling collapse include an age of less than seven years at the time of infection, thoracolumbar involvement, loss of more than two vertebral bodies and the presence of radiographic ‘Spine-at-risk’ signs. In correction of established deformity, posterior only surgery with a variety of osteotomies is now preferred. In patients with deformity of more than 90 degrees, an opening-closing wedge osteotomy must be done to prevent neurological deficit.