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Journal of Children's Orthopaedics

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Open Access 01-05-2014 | Original Clinical Article

Extraspinal ossifications after implantation of vertical expandable prosthetic titanium ribs (VEPTRs)

Authors: Vanja Zivkovic, Philippe Büchler, Dror Ovadia, Rolf Riise, Ralf Stuecker, Carol Hasler

Published in: Journal of Children's Orthopaedics | Issue 3/2014

Abstract

Introduction

Though developed for thoracic insufficiency syndrome, the spinal growth-stimulating potential and the ease of placement of vertical expandable titanium ribs (VEPTRs) has resulted in their widespread use for early-onset spine deformity. Observation of implant-related ossifications warrants further assessment, since they may be detrimental to the function-preserving non-fusion strategy.

Patients and methods

Radiographs (obtained pre and post index procedure, and at 4-year follow-up) and the records of 65 VEPTR patients from four paediatric spine centres were analysed. Ossifications were classified as type I (at anchor points), type II (along the central part) or type III (re-ossification after thoracostomy).

Results

The average age at the index procedure was 6.5 years (min 1, max 13.7). The most prevalent spine problem was congenital scoliosis (37) with rib fusions (34), followed by neuromuscular and syndromic deformities (13 and 8, respectively). Idiopathic and secondary scoliosis (e.g. after thoracotomy) were less frequent (3 and 4, respectively). Forty-two of the 65 (65 %) patients showed ossifications, half of which were around the anchors. Forty-five percent (15/33) without pre-existing rib fusions developed a type II ossification along the implant. Re-ossifications of thoracostomies were less frequent (5/34, 15 %). The occurrence of ossifications was not associated with patient-specific factors.

Conclusions

Implant-related ossifications around VEPTR are common. In contrast to harmless bone formation around anchors, ossifications around the telescopic part and the rod section are troublesome in view of their possible negative impact on chest cage compliance and spinal mobility. This potential side effect needs to be considered during implant selection, particularly in patients with originally normal thoracic and spinal anatomy.

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Title: Extraspinal ossifications after implantation of vertical expandable prosthetic titanium ribs (VEPTRs)
Authors: Vanja Zivkovic
Philippe Büchler
Dror Ovadia
Rolf Riise
Ralf Stuecker
Carol Hasler
Publication date: 01-05-2014
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Journal of Children's Orthopaedics / Issue 3/2014
Print ISSN: 1863-2521
Electronic ISSN: 1863-2548
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11832-014-0585-0

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Extraspinal ossifications after implantation of vertical expandable prosthetic titanium ribs (VEPTRs)

Abstract

Introduction

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusions

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