Kyphectomy in neonates with meningomyelocele

Kyphosis is the most severe spinal deformity associated with meningomyelocele (MMC) and is seen in approximately 15% of neonates. Our purpose is to present our clinical experience, to discuss the technique and deformity correction in kyphectomy in neonates with MMC, and to assess its long-term outcomes.

In this prospective study, the authors reviewed eight cases submitted to surgery between 2013 and 2015. We evaluated clinical characteristics that were analyzed, as were the operative technique employed, and angle range of the kyphosis deformity postcorrection follow-up.

Neonatal kyphectomy was performed of six females and two males. The mean birth weight was 2780 g, and the mean age at the time of surgery was 5.6 days. There were S-shaped type deformity in lumbar region in all neonates. In the correction of the kyphotic deformity, a total vertebrae were removed from four patient, whereas a partial vertebrectomy was done in four. The mean operative time was 116 min. No patients did not require the blood transfusion. There were no serious complications, and wound closure was successful in all patients. The mean follow-up period was 4 years and 3 months (range 36–61 months), except one patient who died 1 week after discharge. The mean preoperative kyphosis of 75.6° (range, 50°-90°) improved at last follow-up to 35° (range 15°–55°). All patients had surgical procedures for hydrocephalus. Three patients had surgery for Chiari type II malformation. The mean hospital stay was 27.7 days.

Kyphectomy performed at the time of dural sac closure in the neonate is a safe procedure with excellent correction.