Multilevel Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy for Correction of Severe Rigid Adult Spinal Deformities: A Case Series, Indications, Considerations, and Literature Review

BACKGROUND: Rigid and ankylosed thoracolumbar spinal deformities require three-column osteotomy (3CO) to achieve adequate correction. For severe and multiregional deformities, multilevel 3CO is required but its use and outcomes are rarely reported. OBJECTIVE: To describe the use of multilevel pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) in adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients with severe, rigid, and ankylosed multiregional deformity. METHODS: Retrospective review of 5 ASD patients who underwent multilevel PSO for the correction of severe fixed deformity and review the literature regarding the use of multilevel PSO. RESULTS: Five patients presented with spinal imbalance secondary to regional and multi-regional spinal deformities involving the thoracolumbar spine. All patients underwent a single-stage two-level noncontiguous PSO, and 2 of the patients underwent a staged third PSO to treat deformity involving a separate spinal region. Significant radiographic correction was achieved with normalization of spinal alignment and parameters. Two-level PSO was able to provide greater than 80 degrees of sagittal plane correction in both the lumbar and thoracic spine. Two patients experienced new postoperative weakness which recovered to preoperative baseline at 3 to 6 mo follow-up. At most recent follow-up, 4 of the 5 patients gained significant pain relief and had improved functionality. CONCLUSION: Noncontiguous multilevel PSO is a formidable surgical technique. Additional risk (compared to single-level 3CO) comes in the form of greater blood loss and higher risk for postoperative weakness. Nonetheless, multilevel PSO is feasible and effective for correcting severe multiplanar and multiregional ASD, and patients gain significant benefits in increased functionality and pain relief.