Halo traction combined with posterior-only approach correction for cervical kyphosis with Neurofibromatosis-1: minimum 2 years follow-up

Background Surgical management of cervical kyphosis in patients with NF-1 is a challenging task. Presently, anterior-only (AO), posterior-only (PO) and combined anterior-posterior (AP) spinal fusion are common surgical strategies. However, the choice of surgical strategy and application of Halo traction remain controversial. Few studies have shown and recommended posterior-only approach for cervical kyphosis correction in patients with NF-1. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and the effectiveness of halo Traction combined with posterior-only approach correction for treatment of cervical kyphosis with NF-1. Methods Twenty-six patients with severe cervical kyphosis due to NF-1 were reviewed retrospectively between January 2010 and April 2018. All the cases underwent halo traction combined with posterior instrumentation and fusion surgery. Correction result, neurologic status and complications were analyzed. Results In this study, cervical kyphosis Cobb angle decreased from initial 61.3 +/- 19.7 degrees to postoperative 10.6 +/- 3.7 degrees (P