Study design: Segmental fixation is the preferred technique for the surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Sublaminar wiring is a widely used, strong type of segmental fixation. The most common drawback of the sublaminar wiring is the risk of neurologic injury. The authors have applied subtransverse wiring for 3 years, and the technique seems promising.
Objectives: To show that subtransverse wiring is a technique strong enough to correct scoliosis curves and does not carry neurologic injury risks.
Summary of background data: Sublaminar wiring is a commonly used fixation method for posterior fusion in the treatment of scoliosis. Because of its associated risk of neurologic injury, it is mostly recommended for long neuromuscular curves.
Methods: The authors used the subtransverse wiring technique in 12 cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and followed them for an average of 22 months.
Results: The average correction rate was 65%, and correction loss at the end of the follow-up period was 5 degrees. No neurologic complications were encountered.
Conclusions: Subtransverse wiring is strong enough to correct scoliotic curves. It requires less operative time and skill and is neurologically safe.