What is Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy?
Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO) is a surgical procedure used to correct severe spinal deformities such as kyphosis, which is an excessive forward curvature of the spine. The PSO involves removing a wedge-shaped section of bone from the posterior aspect of the vertebral body, including the pedicle, lamina, and facet joints.
The goal of PSO is to realign the spine to a more normal curvature, which can alleviate symptoms such as back pain, difficulty standing or walking, and breathing problems. The procedure is typically performed on patients with severe deformities that have not responded to non-surgical treatments, such as bracing or physical therapy.
Steps
The specific steps involved in a Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO) procedure can vary depending on the individual patient's condition and the surgeon's approach. However, some general steps typically involved in a PSO procedure may include:
Anesthesia
The patient is given general anesthesia, which will make them unconscious and unable to feel pain during the surgery.
Incision
The surgeon makes a long incision down the center of the back, exposing the spine.
Exposure
The surgeon removes the muscles and tissues covering the spinal column, exposing the affected vertebrae.
Pedicle removal
The surgeon removes the pedicle, which is a small bony protrusion on the back of the vertebrae, using specialized instruments.
Osteotomy
The surgeon then makes a precise cut through the vertebral body to create a wedge-shaped piece of bone, which is then removed. This allows the surgeon to change the angle of the spine and reduce the deformity.
Rod placement
The surgeon places metal rods along the length of the spine, connecting the vertebrae above and below the osteotomy site.
Bone grafting
The surgeon fills the space created by the osteotomy with a bone graft, which helps to stabilize the spine.
Closure
The surgeon closes the incision with sutures or staples and applies bandages.
Procedure
Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO) procedure involves making a long incision down the center of the back, removing the muscles and tissues covering the spine, and removing a wedge-shaped section of bone from the posterior aspect of the affected vertebrae. The surgeon then places metal rods along the length of the spine and fills the space created by the osteotomy with a bone graft. The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and the patient will typically spend several days in the hospital for monitoring and pain management, followed by a rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility.
