Vacuum-assisted closure for deep infection after spinal instrumentation for scoliosis

J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2008 Mar;90(3):377-81. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.90B3.19890.

Abstract

Our aim was to review the efficacy of the wound vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) system in the treatment of deep infection after extensive instrumentation and fusion for spinal deformity in children and adolescents. A total of 14 patients with early deep spinal infection were treated using this technique. Of these, 12 had neuromuscular or syndromic problems. Clinical and laboratory data were reviewed. The mean follow-up was 44 months (24 to 72). All wounds healed. Two patients required plastic surgery to speed up the process. In no patient was the hardware removed and there was no loss of correction or recurrent infection. We believe that the wound VAC system is a useful tool in the armamentarium of the spinal surgeon dealing with patients susceptible to wound infections, especially those with neuromuscular diseases. It allows for the retention of the instrumentation and the maintenance of spinal correction. It is reliable and easy to use.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bone Transplantation
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Internal Fixators
  • Male
  • Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy / methods*
  • Neuromuscular Diseases / surgery
  • Radiography
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Scoliosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Scoliosis / surgery*
  • Spinal Fusion*
  • Surgical Wound Infection / diagnostic imaging
  • Surgical Wound Infection / drug therapy
  • Surgical Wound Infection / therapy*
  • Transplantation, Homologous
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wound Healing

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents