Researchers reviewed the Pediatric Orthopedic Spine Database and identified 151 patients who underwent neuromuscular scoliosis with a mean follow-up of two years. Eight patients developed postoperative wound infection and nine patients without an infection were matched by year and type of surgery.
The presence of a vertriculoperitoneal shunt before surgery was the only factor statistically associated with an increased risk for wound infection. The infection was also associated with pseudarthrosis and an increased length of hospitalization. Of the patients that developed infections, 88 percent required surgical intervention.
Read the abstract for “Wound Infections After Surgery for Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Risk Factors and Treatment Outcomes.”
Read other coverage on spine surgery research:
– Federal Government Launches Investigation Into Adult Scoliosis Treatment
– Dr. Joseph Weistroffer Discusses NFL Players Returning After Spine Surgery
– SPORT: Patients Undergoing Surgery for Lower Back Pain, Leg Pain Improve More Than Nonoperative Treatment
