Management of iatrogenic flat-back syndrome.
Journal Article (Journal Article;Review)
Iatrogenic loss of lordosis is now frequently recognized as a complication following placement of thoracolumbar instrumentation, especially with distraction instrumentation. Flat-back syndrome is characterized by forward inclination of the trunk, inability to stand upright, and back pain. Evaluation of the deformity should include a full-length lateral radiograph obtained with the patient's knees and hips fully extended. The most common cause of the deformity includes the use of distraction instrumentation in the lumbar spine and pseudarthrosis. Surgical treatment described in the literature includes opening (Smith-Petersen) osteotomy, polysegmental osteotomy, and closing wedge osteotomy. The authors will review the literature, cause, clinical presentation, prevention, and surgical management of flat-back syndrome.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Wiggins, GC; Ondra, SL; Shaffrey, CI
Published Date
- September 15, 2003
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 15 / 3
Start / End Page
- E8 -
PubMed ID
- 15347226
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1092-0684
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.3171/foc.2003.15.3.8
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States