STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a 36-year follow-up of a rare operation. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: There have been no reports of follow-up of pediatric hemivertebra excision and fusion into midadult life. METHODS: A chart and radiological review at 36 years after surgery. RESULTS: The patient is alive and well and leading a normal life. Her Oswestry Disability Index is 0. Mild degenerative radiological signs are evident at the adjacent level above (T10-T12) and below (sacroiliac joints). CONCLUSION: Early excision of the L5 hemivertebra would have been preferable, but the long-term results are good.
STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a 36-year follow-up of a rare operation. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: There have been no reports of follow-up of pediatric hemivertebra excision and fusion into midadult life. METHODS: A chart and radiological review at 36 years after surgery. RESULTS: The patient is alive and well and leading a normal life. Her Oswestry Disability Index is 0. Mild degenerative radiological signs are evident at the adjacent level above (T10-T12) and below (sacroiliac joints). CONCLUSION: Early excision of the L5 hemivertebra would have been preferable, but the long-term results are good.