Treatment of Neuromuscular Scoliosis with Posterior Spinal Fusion Using the Galveston Technique: A Retrospective Review and Results of 62 Patients

Historically, the operative treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis has been associated with a high rate of complication. Recent literature has shown a decreased rate of complication (<50%) in the management of neuromuscular scoliosis with spinal arthrodesis techniques. A retrospective chart and radiographic review of 62 spinal fusions for neuromuscular scoliosis was performed. There were 53 posterior spinal fusions and 9 anteroposterior spinal fusions. The Galveston technique was used in all patients. The average age at surgery was 13 years 7 months, with an average follow-up of 23 months (minimum 10 months). The mean preoperative and postoperative curve magnitudes were 66° and 31°, respectively. There were 20 minor complications and 5 major complications in 20 patients. There were no neurologic complications or deaths.