Posterior fusion for Scheuermann's kyphosis.

Ten patients with Scheuermann's kyphosis were surgically treated with posterior spine fusion and Harrington heavy compression-rod instrumentation. This procedure relieved pain and deformity in all ten patients. The average follow-up period was 26.6 months. The average curve before surgery was 71.4 degrees and at follow-up examination was 39.3 degrees. The postoperative correction of kyphosis averaged 32 degrees (45%), with an average loss of correction of 7.8 degrees. Posterior fusion with Harrington heavy compression-rod instrumentation may prove to be the procedure of choice in Scheuermann's kyphosis that is severe but flexible on hyperextension with a curve greater than 65 degrees.