Ambulatory capacity following fusion to the sacrum with pelvic fixations pediatric spinal deformity patients

Objective: To investigate outcomes of ambulatory pediatric patients fused to the sacrum with pelvic fixation. Study design: Retrospective cohort. Background: Historically in the pediatric spinal deformity literature, long fusions to the sacrum with pelvic fixation have been limited to non-ambulatory patients with pelvic obliquity. This analysis assesses the impact of how long fusions that include pelvic fixation in ambulatory pediatric patients. Methods: Consecutive pediatric patients undergoing fusion to the sacrum with pelvic fixation with any ambulatory capacity at a tertiary academic pediatric spine program from 2016 to 2018 were included in this review. Patient demographics, surgical details, and postoperative results were collected and analyzed to identify the impact on postoperative gait and ambulation function. Outcomes were determined from PROMIS, Parent Proxy Mobility questionnaires, as well as an institution specific pediatric gait questionnaire. Results: 25 patients met inclusion criteria. 96.0% of patients had non-idiopathic scoliosis. 48% (12/25) of patients had previous spinal surgery. Median fusion levels were 17.0. 40% (10/25) had preoperative motor and gait deficits and only one patient with a documented decline at postoperative clinical examination. All 25 patients retained ambulatory capacity following their spinal fusion to the sacrum with pelvic fixation. 64% (16/25) of patients or family members completed the postoperative gait questionnaire. The mean PROMIS T-score was 43.4 (95% CI 36.5–50.0) for intact patients. The postoperative gait questionnaires revealed that 75% (6/8) of neurologically intact patients stated they would have the surgery again. 100% (8/8) of these patients noted an improved posture and 25% (2/8) reported a subjective decrease in ambulatory capacity status/post fusion to the sacrum. 100.0% (8/8) of limited ambulatory patients stated they would have the surgery again and noted improved posture with only 25% (2/8) noting a subjective decrease in ambulation postoperatively. Conclusion: In appropriately selected pediatric spinal deformity patients fusion to the sacrum using pelvic fixation can maintain ambulation with high overall surgical satisfaction. Level of evidence: III.