Evolution of Surgery for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Over 20 Years: Have Outcomes Improved?

STUDY DESIGN.Retrospective review of a prospective adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) registry. OBJECTIVE.To study the evolution of the operative approach, outcomes, and complication rates in AIS surgery over the past 20 years. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA.Surgical techniques in AIS surgery have evolved considerably over the past 20 years. We study the trends in the operative management of AIS over this period and their impact on perioperative outcomes. METHODS.A total of 1819 AIS patients (1995–2013) with 2-year F/U were studied. Operative approach, perioperative parameters, major complication rates, and SRS outcomes were assessed. Linear regression was used to assess the trend of changes over 5-year quartiles. RESULTS.Mean age at surgery was 14.6 ± 2.1 years, 80.2% were females, and this remained consistent throughout. Operative time, EBL/level, and LOS decreased over the 20 years (P