Minimizing Complications in Scoliosis Surgery in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Minimizing Complications in Scoliosis Surgery in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Background:

 Posterior spinal fusion (PSF) in children with cerebral palsy (CP) carries a high risk of
 complications and mortality. Complication rates have been reported as high as 45%, and
 infection rates typically reported at 15%. Efforts to improve efficiency by reducing
 operative time and blood loss could decrease these risks. The purpose of this study is to
 investigate the impact of utilizing two attending surgeons on blood loss, operative time, and
 complications in this population.

 Methods:

 This is a prospective, matched cohort analysis with a consecutive series of patients with CP
 who underwent PSF, with two attending surgeons, in 2012. These are matched with a control
 group that had a single-surgeon team (operative dates 2008-2010), assisted by a resident, PA,
 or RN-FA. The groups are compared using paired Student T-tests and chi square tests
 (significance set a p<0.05).
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Cerebral palsy

 -  neuromuscular scoliosis requiring posterior spinal fusion (>50 degree Cobb)

 -  PSF from 2008-2012 at Phoenix Children's Hospital

 -  GMFCS IV or V

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Diagnosis other than CP

 -  GMFCS I-III

 -  Previous spine deformity surgery