Sacral Alar Iliac (SAI) Screws Fail 75% Less Frequently Than Iliac Bolts in Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Despite recent popularity of SAI screws, there is little data available regarding the failure rate of this technique compared to more traditional modes of iliac fixation. Theoretical advantages of the SAI screws are obviating the need for a screw-to-rod connector and a lower profile. The aim of this study is compare the rate of complication of SAI screw with iliac bolts. Retrospective review of neuromuscular patients treated with posterior spinal fusion with pelvic fixation from January 2004-January 2012 was conducted. Patients with less than two years of follow up were excluded. Charts and radiographs were reviewed and patients were grouped according to the type of pelvic fixation. There were no significant differences preoperatively between the two groups with regard to age, gender, etiology, severity of the scoliosis, pelvic obliquity, thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis.