REVISION DEFORMITY SURGERY
Failed Index Surgery | Complex Osteotomies | High Complication Rate
Revision Indications
Critical Must-Knows
- Pseudarthrosis most common at lumbosacral junction and osteotomy sites
- PJK criteria: greater than 10-15 degree kyphosis at UIV segment
- PSO corrects approximately 30 degrees per level
- SPO corrects approximately 10-15 degrees per level
- Medical optimization critical - frailty assessment mandatory
Examiner's Pearls
- "Identify failure mechanism BEFORE planning revision strategy
- "Know contraindications - greater than 3 major comorbidities, severe osteoporosis, frailty
- "Describe staged revision protocol for deep infection
- "PSO requires greater anterior column support than SPO
Revision Deformity Surgery
Exam Warning
High-Risk Surgery: Revision deformity surgery has complication rates of 40-60%. Examiners will assess your understanding of failure mechanisms, patient selection, and when NOT to operate. Medical frailty and severe osteoporosis may be absolute contraindications.
At a Glance
Essential Mnemonics
IMAGINGIMAGING Protocol for Revision Assessment
Memory Hook:Systematic imaging protocol ensures no failure mechanism is missed
Overview
Revision deformity surgery represents one of the most challenging domains in adult spine surgery, with documented complication rates of 40-60% across major series. The incidence of revision surgery has increased with greater numbers of primary adult deformity corrections being performed, improved patient longevity, and heightened expectations for quality of life.
Epidemiology:
- Revision rates after primary adult deformity surgery range from 15-30% at 5 years
- Australia performs approximately 2,000-3,000 adult deformity procedures annually, with revision rates consistent with international data
- Mean time to revision is 2-3 years, though can range from months to decades
- Patient age at revision typically 55-75 years (older than primary surgery cohort)
Primary Indications for Revision:
- Pseudarthrosis (35-40%): Most common indication, particularly at lumbosacral junction
- Proximal junctional kyphosis (25-30%): Increasingly recognized complication
- Sagittal imbalance (20-25%): Undercorrection or loss of correction
- Infection (10-15%): May present acutely or as late chronic infection
Australian Practice Context: Complex revision deformity surgery is concentrated at tertiary spine centres with access to multidisciplinary support, advanced neuromonitoring, and intensive care facilities. The Australian Spine Registry (SPIN) tracks outcomes and complications nationally. Training pathways require spine fellowship exposure to these complex cases.
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology of Deformity Recurrence
Mechanical Failure Mechanisms:
-
Pseudarthrosis (35-40% of Revisions):
- Incomplete osseous bridging leads to ongoing motion
- Micromotion prevents bone healing
- Results in progressive deformity and hardware failure
- Most common at lumbosacral junction and three-column osteotomy sites
-
Proximal Junctional Kyphosis/Failure (25-30%):
- Acute angular kyphosis at UIV or UIV+1
- Caused by stress concentration at construct terminus
- Biomechanical mismatch between rigid construct and mobile spine
- Osteoporotic compression fractures at junctional vertebrae
-
Sagittal Imbalance (20-25%):
- Undercorrection at index surgery
- Loss of correction over time
- Progressive adjacent segment degeneration
- Leads to positive sagittal vertical axis (SVA greater than 50mm)
-
Distal Junctional Failure:
- Less common than PJK (approximately 5-10%)
- Typically at lumbosacral junction
- Inadequate sacropelvic fixation
- S1 screw pullout or rod fracture
Biological Failure Mechanisms:
Infection:
- Disrupts fusion biology
- Creates biofilm on implants
- Requires staged revision in most cases
- May present as persistent pain or delayed wound healing
Osteoporosis:
- Screw loosening and pullout
- Compression fractures at junctional vertebrae
- Impaired fusion biology
- Higher pseudarthrosis rates
Medical Comorbidities:
- Diabetes impairs wound healing and fusion
- Smoking profoundly inhibits fusion (3-5 fold increased pseudarthrosis)
- Obesity increases mechanical stress on construct
- Malnutrition impairs healing
Anatomical Considerations in Revision Surgery
Scar Tissue and Epidural Adhesions:
- Extensive scar from prior surgery
- Neural elements adherent to dura and bone
- Risk of durotomy increased (10-15% in revisions)
- Risk of nerve injury during dissection
Altered Anatomy:
- Facets and posterior elements may be removed
- Pedicles violated by prior screws
- Bone quality compromised by prior decortication
- Vascular anatomy distorted by scarring
Loss of Fixation Points:
- Previous screw trajectories limit new screw placement
- Osteoporotic bone from stress shielding
- May require alternative fixation (hooks, sublaminar wires, iliac screws)
Classification
Revision Complexity Classification (Kim et al.)
Revision Deformity Surgery Complexity Grading
| category | characteristics | surgicalRequirements | expectedORTime | complicationRisk | example |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 - Simple Revision | Focal pseudarthrosis, solid fusion elsewhere, no deformity progression | Limited exposure, no osteotomy, autograft supplementation | 3-5 hours | Low (15-25%) | Single-level pseudarthrosis at L4-L5 in otherwise solid construct |
| Grade 2 - Moderate Revision | Multi-level pseudarthrosis or PJK requiring extension, mild deformity | Extended exposure, may need SPO, autograft + BMP | 5-8 hours | Moderate (25-40%) | PJK requiring 2-3 level cranial extension with SPO |
| Grade 3 - Complex Revision | Major deformity progression, requires osteotomy (PSO), extensive hardware revision | Full revision, PSO or VCR, dual rods, iliac fixation | 8-12 hours | High (40-60%) | Flatback deformity with SVA 150mm requiring L3 PSO and full construct revision |
| Grade 4 - Ultra-Complex Revision | Multiple prior revisions, severe rigid deformity, infection, major comorbidities | Staged procedures, combined approaches, multi-level osteotomies | Greater than 12 hours or staged | Very High (60-80%) | Third revision for infected pseudarthrosis with severe fixed kyphosis requiring VCR |
Etiology-Based Classification
Mechanical Failures:
- Type A: Pseudarthrosis (most common)
- Type B: Proximal junctional failure
- Type C: Distal junctional failure
- Type D: Hardware failure (rod fracture, screw breakage)
Alignment Failures:
- Type E: Sagittal imbalance (positive SVA)
- Type F: Coronal imbalance (trunk shift)
- Type G: Combined sagittal and coronal imbalance
Biological Failures:
- Type H: Infection (acute or chronic)
- Type I: Implant-related complications (prominence, pain)
Combined Failures:
- Type J: Multiple concurrent failure mechanisms (common in revisions)
Proximal Junctional Kyphosis (PJK) Classification
Hart et al. Classification:
- Type 1: Bony failure (compression fracture at UIV or UIV+1)
- Type 2: Ligamentous failure (disruption of PLL, supraspinous ligament)
- Type 3: Combined bony and ligamentous failure
Clinical Severity:
- Asymptomatic PJK: Greater than 10 degrees but no pain or dysfunction
- Symptomatic PJK: Pain limiting function
- PJF (Proximal Junctional Failure): Neurological deficit or severe deformity requiring revision
Clinical Presentation
History
Timeline of Symptoms:
- Early Recurrence (Less than 6 months): Suggests technical error, infection, or inadequate correction
- Intermediate (6 months to 2 years): Typical for pseudarthrosis or junctional failure
- Late (Greater than 2 years): Adjacent segment disease, late infection, hardware fatigue
Pain Patterns:
- Mechanical Back Pain: Worse with activity, better with rest (pseudarthrosis, hardware failure)
- Radicular Pain: Nerve root compression from deformity or foraminal stenosis
- Neurogenic Claudication: Spinal canal stenosis in deformity
- Constant Pain: Consider infection, especially if night pain
Functional Impact:
- Inability to stand upright (positive sagittal balance)
- Gait disturbance (stooped forward posture, compensatory knee flexion)
- Loss of horizontal gaze (cannot see ahead when walking)
- Decreased walking tolerance and distance
- Impact on activities of daily living
Red Flags:
- Fever, chills, night sweats (infection)
- Progressive neurological deficit
- Bladder or bowel dysfunction
- Rapid deformity progression
- Wound drainage or breakdown
Physical Examination
Global Alignment Assessment:
- Plumb Line Test: C7 plumb line to sacrum (SVA measurement)
- Coronal Balance: C7 plumb line to CSVL (coronal vertical axis)
- Compensatory Mechanisms: Knee flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, pelvic retroversion
- Horizontal Gaze: Can patient look straight ahead when standing?
Local Examination:
- Inspect incision for healing, drainage, erythema
- Palpate for tenderness, fluid collection, implant prominence
- Assess paraspinal muscle bulk (atrophy suggests denervation)
- Check for gibbus or step-off deformity
Neurological Examination:
- Motor strength (all myotomes L2-S2)
- Sensory examination (light touch, pinprick all dermatomes)
- Reflexes (knee, ankle, Babinski)
- Gait assessment (antalgic, Trendelenburg, foot drop)
- Upper motor neuron signs if myelopathy suspected
Functional Assessment:
- Walking distance and speed
- Sit-to-stand test
- Ability to maintain upright posture
- ODI (Oswestry Disability Index) or SRS-22 scores
Differential Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis of Failed Deformity Surgery
| category | clinicalFeatures | imaging | labWork | management |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pseudarthrosis | Mechanical pain, pain-free interval then recurrence | CT shows less than 50% bridging bone, possible hardware failure | Normal inflammatory markers | Revision fusion with biologics |
| Infection | Persistent or recurrent pain, constitutional symptoms possible | MRI shows fluid collection, bone edema; loosening on radiographs | Elevated CRP/ESR, positive cultures on aspiration | Staged revision: explant, antibiotics, reconstruct |
| Adjacent Segment Disease | New radicular symptoms at unfused levels | Degeneration, stenosis, or instability adjacent to fusion | Normal | Conservative vs extension of fusion |
| Proximal Junctional Kyphosis | Progressive kyphotic deformity, pain at UIV region | Acute kyphosis at UIV/UIV+1, possible fracture | Normal, check DEXA for osteoporosis | Observation vs cranial extension with osteotomy |
| Chronic Pain Syndrome | Pain out of proportion to findings, multiple prior surgeries | May show solid fusion and normal alignment | Normal | Pain psychology, avoid further surgery |
Investigations
Radiographic Assessment
Standing Full-Length Spine Radiographs (Mandatory):
- AP and Lateral: Must be standing weight-bearing to assess true deformity
- Coronal Parameters: Cobb angle, coronal vertical axis (CVA), trunk shift
- Sagittal Parameters:
- SVA (sagittal vertical axis): C7 plumb line to posterior-superior S1 (normal less than 50mm)
- Pelvic incidence (PI): Fixed anatomic parameter
- Lumbar lordosis (LL): L1-S1 Cobb angle
- PI-LL mismatch: Normal within 10 degrees
- Pelvic tilt (PT): Compensatory mechanism (normal less than 20 degrees)
- Thoracic kyphosis (TK): T5-T12 Cobb angle
Hardware Assessment:
- Screw position and haloing (greater than 1mm lucency = loosening)
- Rod integrity (fractures, breakage)
- Connector and cross-link integrity
- Proximal and distal junctional vertebrae assessment
Flexion-Extension Views (Selected Cases):
- Assess for motion at suspected pseudarthrosis
- Greater than 5 degrees motion suggests non-union
- Limited value if hardware intact
Advanced Imaging
CT Scan with Metal Artifact Reduction:
- Gold Standard for Fusion Assessment
- Multiplanar reconstructions (sagittal, coronal, axial)
- Assess each interspace: bridging bone, bone quality
- Greater than 50% bridging bone = solid fusion
- Evaluate screw trajectories for revision planning
- Hounsfield units for bone density assessment
MRI (Selected Indications):
- Infection Suspected: Fluid collections, marrow edema, discitis
- Neurological Symptoms: Neural compression, epidural hematoma
- Soft Tissue Assessment: Muscle atrophy, paraspinal masses
- Use MARS (metal artifact reduction sequences) protocols
Nuclear Medicine:
- SPECT-CT: Functional assessment of fusion
- Hot spots indicate active stress or non-union
- Useful when CT equivocal
- Labeled WBC Scan: Infection diagnosis (sensitivity 85-90%)
- PET-CT: Infection or oncologic concerns
Bone Density Assessment:
- DEXA Scan: Essential for all revision candidates
- T-score less than -2.5 indicates osteoporosis
- Adjust surgical plan based on bone quality
- Consider teriparatide pretreatment if severe
Laboratory Evaluation
Baseline Studies:
- CBC: Anemia (blood loss risk), leukocytosis (infection)
- CMP: Renal function (contrast studies), electrolytes
- Coagulation Studies: Baseline for major surgery
- Type and Screen: Anticipate transfusion needs
Infection Workup (If Suspected):
- CRP and ESR: Elevated suggests infection (CRP greater than 10 mg/L)
- Blood Cultures: If systemic sepsis suspected
- Aspiration: Cell count, culture, sensitivity
- Greater than 3000 WBCs with greater than 80% PMNs suggests infection
- Send for aerobic, anaerobic, fungal cultures
Bone Health and Nutrition:
- Vitamin D: Target greater than 30 ng/mL
- Calcium, PTH: Assess calcium metabolism
- Albumin, Prealbumin: Nutritional status (albumin greater than 3.5 g/dL)
- HbA1c: Glycemic control (target less than 7.0%)
Specialized Tests:
- Teriparatide Level: If considering anabolic therapy
- Bone Turnover Markers: Assess bone metabolism (research setting)
High Yield
Management
Non-Operative Management
Indications for Conservative Treatment:
- Medical comorbidities prohibitive for surgery
- Frail patients with limited life expectancy
- Patient preference after informed discussion
- Asymptomatic radiographic findings (incidental PJK, asymptomatic pseudarthrosis)
- Mild symptoms manageable conservatively
Conservative Management Strategies:
Bracing:
- TLSO: For mechanical back pain, pseudarthrosis
- Limited efficacy in adult deformity (poor compliance)
- May temporize symptoms while optimizing for surgery
- Custom-molded braces for better fit in deformed spine
Pain Management:
- Multimodal Analgesia: Acetaminophen, NSAIDs (if renal function allows)
- Neuropathic Agents: Gabapentin, pregabalin for radicular pain
- Muscle Relaxants: Short-term for spasm
- Avoid Long-Term Opioids: Risk of dependence, minimal long-term benefit
- Interventional Pain: Epidural injections, radiofrequency ablation (limited role)
Physical Therapy:
- Core strengthening to unload spine
- Gait training and assistive devices
- Postural exercises (limited effectiveness in fixed deformity)
- Aquatic therapy (buoyancy reduces spinal load)
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Activity modification (avoid prolonged standing, heavy lifting)
- Weight optimization (reduce mechanical load)
- Assistive devices (walker, cane for balance and unloading)
Expected Outcomes:
- Approximately 20-30% achieve acceptable symptom control
- Most patients with significant deformity eventually require surgery
- Conservative management buys time for optimization
Preoperative Optimization
Medical Optimization (Critical for Success):
Bone Health:
- Vitamin D supplementation (target greater than 30 ng/mL, ideally greater than 40)
- Calcium 1500mg daily
- Osteoporosis Treatment:
- Bisphosphonates: Controversial (may impair fusion, stop 3 months preop)
- Teriparatide: Anabolic agent, excellent for fusion augmentation
- Start 3-6 months preoperatively if possible
- Continue 6-12 months postoperatively
Nutritional Optimization:
- Albumin greater than 3.5 g/dL (target greater than 4.0)
- Consider nutritional supplementation if malnourished
- Protein 1.5 g/kg/day for bone healing
Smoking Cessation:
- Absolute Requirement: Minimum 6 weeks, ideally 3 months
- Increases pseudarthrosis risk 3-5 fold if continued
- Consider nicotine replacement therapy
- Verify with serum cotinine levels
Glycemic Control:
- HbA1c less than 7.0% (target less than 6.5%)
- Infection risk increased with poor control
- Coordinate with endocrinology
Weight Optimization:
- BMI less than 35 preferred (less than 40 acceptable)
- Weight loss reduces surgical risk and mechanical stress
- May require bariatric surgery consultation
Psychosocial Optimization:
- Assess expectations (often unrealistic in revision setting)
- Screen for depression and anxiety (common after failed surgery)
- Ensure social support for prolonged recovery
- Consider psychology clearance for complex cases
Infection Prevention:
- MRSA Screening and Decolonization: Nasal swab, mupirocin ointment
- Chlorhexidine body wash 3 days preoperatively
- Dental evaluation (eradicate oral infection sources)
Operative Management
Surgical Planning Principles:
-
Define Objectives:
- Achieve solid fusion
- Restore sagittal and coronal balance
- Decompress neural elements if indicated
- Create durable construct
-
Choose Appropriate Technique:
- Match complexity to failure mechanism
- Consider patient factors (age, bone quality, comorbidities)
- Balance risk versus benefit
-
Staged vs Single-Stage:
- Single-Stage: Most revisions if medically fit
- Staged: Infection (explant then reconstruct), ultra-complex cases, medical fragility
Surgical Techniques by Indication:
Revision Strategies by Failure Mechanism
| category | assessment | surgicalStrategy | fixationStrategy | osteotomy | expectedFusionRate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pseudarthrosis | CT showing less than 50% bridging bone, possible hardware failure | Expose pseudarthrosis, remove fibrous tissue, decorticate, autograft + BMP | Revise failed screws, extend fixation 1 level proximally and distally | Rarely needed unless deformity progression | 80-90% if isolated, 70-80% if multilevel |
| Proximal Junctional Kyphosis | Kyphosis greater than 20 degrees at UIV, compression fracture possible | Extend fusion 2-3 levels cranially, SPO at apex if rigid | Prophylactic vertebroplasty at new UIV, hooks + screws hybrid | SPO (Smith-Petersen Osteotomy) if flexible, PSO if rigid | 75-85%, PJK recurrence 15-25% |
| Flatback/Sagittal Imbalance | SVA greater than 50mm, PI-LL mismatch greater than 20 degrees | Restore lordosis with osteotomy, posterior column release | Robust fixation with dual rods, iliac screws, extend to upper thoracic | PSO (Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy) for 30-40 degree correction | 70-80%, high complication risk (neurological 5-10%) |
| Distal Junctional Failure | Lumbosacral instability, S1 screw pullout, rod fracture distally | Revise lumbosacral junction, autograft + BMP | Bilateral iliac screws, S2-alar-iliac screws, cement augmentation | L5-S1 release if ankylosis present | 85-90% with adequate sacropelvic fixation |
| Infection | Elevated CRP/ESR, positive cultures, fluid on MRI | STAGE 1: Explant hardware, debridement, culture-directed antibiotics; STAGE 2: Reconstruct after infection cleared (6-12 weeks) | New hardware after infection eradicated, robust fixation | Defer until second stage if needed | 60-75% (lower due to infection history) |
Advanced Surgical Techniques:
Osteotomy Selection:
-
Smith-Petersen Osteotomy (SPO):
- Posterior column release (facets, ligamentum flavum)
- Correction: 10 degrees per level (flexible deformity)
- Multiple levels for gradual correction
- Lower neurological risk than PSO
-
Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy (PSO):
- Three-column osteotomy through single posterior approach
- Correction: 30-40 degrees per level
- Indicated for rigid flatback deformity
- Higher neurological risk (5-10%)
- Requires robust fixation (dual rods, extension 3-4 levels each side)
-
Vertebral Column Resection (VCR):
- Complete vertebrectomy (all three columns)
- Maximum correction potential (50-70 degrees)
- Reserved for severe rigid deformity, ultra-complex revisions
- Highest neurological risk (10-20%)
- Requires ICU monitoring, neuromonitoring, experienced team
Fixation Strategies:
Screw Placement in Revision:
- New Trajectories: Angle screws to avoid prior screw tracks
- Salvage Techniques:
- Larger diameter screws (6.5mm vs 5.5mm)
- Longer screws for bicortical purchase
- Cement augmentation in osteoporotic bone (polymethylmethacrylate)
- Cortical bone trajectory screws (alternative to pedicle screws)
Supplemental Fixation:
- Hooks: Laminar or pedicle hooks at proximal levels
- Sublaminar Wires: Polyester bands for additional fixation
- Iliac Screws: Mandatory for lumbosacral revisions
- S2-Alar-Iliac (S2AI) Screws: Lower profile alternative to traditional iliac screws
Rod Configuration:
- Dual Rods: Bilateral rods on each side (four rods total)
- Satellite Rods: Supplemental rods to reinforce high-stress zones
- Cobalt-Chromium: Preferred for high-stress constructs (better fatigue resistance)
- Larger Diameter: 6.0mm or 6.35mm (5.5mm inadequate for long revisions)
Biological Augmentation:
- Autograft: Iliac crest or local bone (gold standard)
- Allograft: Structural support, bulk (cancellous chips, DBM)
- BMP-2: Off-label for posterior fusion, 1.5 mg/mL concentration
- Higher doses increase complications (seroma, ectopic bone)
- Avoid in anterior cervical spine (swelling risk)
- Bone Marrow Aspirate: Adjunct to autograft/allograft
Neuromonitoring:
- Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEPs): Monitor dorsal column function
- Motor Evoked Potentials (MEPs): Monitor corticospinal tract (more sensitive for motor deficit)
- Triggered EMG: Pedicle screw placement, nerve root monitoring
- Free-Running EMG: Continuous nerve root monitoring during dissection
- Stagnara Wake-Up Test: Backup if neuromonitoring unavailable or questionable changes
Postoperative Management
ICU Care (First 24-48 Hours):
- Neurological checks every 2 hours
- Hemodynamic monitoring (PSO/VCR cases)
- Pain control (epidural, PCA, multimodal)
- Strict I/O monitoring (blood loss replacement)
- Drain management (remove when output less than 50 mL/8 hours)
Early Mobilization (Critical):
- Out of bed to chair POD1 if neurologically intact
- Physical therapy initiated immediately
- Early mobilization reduces complications (DVT, pneumonia, ileus)
- TLSO brace for first 3 months if osteotomy performed
Thromboprophylaxis:
- Mechanical: Sequential compression devices, early mobilization
- Chemical: Enoxaparin or heparin starting POD1 (after drain removal)
- Duration: Minimum 4 weeks, consider extended prophylaxis to 12 weeks
Nutritional Support:
- High-protein diet (1.5 g/kg/day)
- Vitamin D and calcium supplementation
- Consider nutritional consultation if poor intake
Bone Health Continuation:
- Continue teriparatide 12-24 months if started preoperatively
- Vitamin D and calcium indefinitely
- Repeat DEXA at 1-2 years
Surveillance Protocol:
- 2 weeks: Wound check, staple/suture removal, pain assessment
- 6 weeks: Radiographs (AP/Lateral standing full-length), advance PT
- 12 weeks: Radiographs, discontinue brace if appropriate
- 6 months: Radiographs, CT if fusion concern
- 12 months: Radiographs and CT to confirm fusion
REVISIONREVISION Success Checklist
Memory Hook:Examiners assess systematic approach - demonstrate reproducible method for complex revision cases
Complications
Major Complications
Neurological Injury (5-15% in Complex Revisions):
Risk Factors:
- Osteotomy procedures (PSO, VCR)
- Severe deformity correction
- Epidural scarring from prior surgery
- Prolonged retraction
Prevention:
- Multimodal neuromonitoring
- Meticulous technique during dural dissection
- Gradual deformity correction
- Triggered EMG during screw placement
- Maintain mean arterial pressure greater than 85 mmHg
Management:
- Immediate recognition (neuromonitoring changes)
- Release correction if needed
- Wake-up test to confirm
- Urgent MRI if postoperative deficit
- Emergent revision if hematoma or hardware malposition
Infection (8-15% in Revisions):
Risk Factors:
- Diabetes (HbA1c greater than 7.5%)
- Obesity (BMI greater than 35)
- Prolonged surgery (greater than 8 hours)
- Prior infection
- Malnutrition (albumin less than 3.5)
Prevention:
- Preoperative optimization (glycemic control, weight loss)
- Prophylactic antibiotics (cefazolin 2g, redose every 4 hours)
- Meticulous hemostasis and dead space obliteration
- Closed suction drainage
- Negative pressure wound therapy in high-risk cases
Management:
- Early (Less than 3 months): Irrigation and debridement, retain hardware, culture-directed antibiotics 6 weeks IV then 6 weeks PO
- Late (Greater than 3 months): Staged revision (explant, antibiotics 6-12 weeks, reconstruct)
- Biofilm-disrupting antibiotics (rifampin for staphylococci)
Proximal Junctional Kyphosis (20-30% Recurrence After Revision):
Risk Factors:
- Osteoporosis (T-score less than -2.5)
- Overcorrection of lumbar lordosis
- UIV at inflection point (T10-L1)
- Age greater than 65
Prevention:
- Gradual lordosis transition at UIV
- Prophylactic vertebroplasty at UIV and UIV+1
- Extend fusion to upper thoracic (T2-T4) in high-risk cases
- Avoid fusion termination at T10 (extend to T9 or stop at T11)
Management:
- Observation if asymptomatic (kyphosis less than 20 degrees)
- Revision if symptomatic or severe (kyphosis greater than 30 degrees)
- Further cranial extension with osteotomy
Pseudarthrosis (15-30% in Complex Revisions):
Risk Factors:
- Smoking (3-5 fold increased risk)
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Multilevel revision
- Osteotomy site
- Inadequate biologics
Prevention:
- Smoking cessation (absolute requirement)
- Optimize bone health (vitamin D, teriparatide)
- Generous autograft + BMP
- Robust fixation (extend fixation, dual rods)
- Postoperative immobilization (TLSO 12 weeks)
Management:
- Observation if asymptomatic and no hardware failure
- Revision if symptomatic or hardware failure
- Address all risk factors before re-revision
Medical Complications
Medical Complications in Revision Deformity Surgery
| category | incidence | riskFactors | prevention | management |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Venous Thromboembolism | 3-5% (DVT), 0.5-1% (PE) | Prolonged surgery, immobility, obesity, age | SCDs, early mobilization, chemical prophylaxis, risk stratification | Anticoagulation (balancing bleed risk), IVC filter if recurrent |
| Cardiac Complications | 2-5% (MI, arrhythmia) | Age greater than 70, CAD, CHF, prolonged surgery | Preoperative cardiac clearance, beta-blocker if indicated, fluid management | Cardiology consultation, ICU monitoring, treat underlying cause |
| Pulmonary Complications | 5-10% (pneumonia, atelectasis) | Smoking, COPD, prolonged intubation, poor mobilization | Smoking cessation, incentive spirometry, early mobilization, minimize opioids | Respiratory therapy, antibiotics if pneumonia, oxygen support |
| Acute Kidney Injury | 2-5% | Preexisting renal disease, hypotension, contrast exposure, rhabdomyolysis | IV hydration, avoid nephrotoxic agents, maintain MAP greater than 65 | Nephrology consultation, correct reversible causes, dialysis if severe |
| Delirium | 10-20% (age greater than 65) | Age, dementia, prolonged surgery, pain, medications | Minimize opioids and benzodiazepines, sleep hygiene, orientation, family presence | Treat underlying cause, avoid antipsychotics unless severe, supportive care |
Prognosis and Outcomes
Expected Outcomes
Successful Revision:
- Pain Relief: 60-70% achieve significant improvement (greater than 30% reduction in VAS)
- Functional Improvement: 50-60% meaningful improvement in ODI or SRS-22
- Fusion Rate: 70-85% depending on complexity and bone quality
- Patient Satisfaction: 50-65% satisfied or very satisfied (lower than primary surgery)
Radiographic Outcomes:
- SVA Correction: Target SVA less than 50mm achieved in 75-85%
- PI-LL Restoration: Within 10 degrees in 70-80%
- Coronal Balance: CVA less than 30mm in 80-90%
Complication Rates:
- Any Complication: 40-60% (Grade 1-2: 30-40%, Grade 3-4: 10-20%)
- Reoperation: 15-25% within 2 years
- Mortality: 0.5-1% (higher in elderly or ultra-complex cases)
Predictors of Success
Positive Predictors:
- Achievement of solid fusion
- Restoration of sagittal balance (SVA less than 50mm, PI-LL within 10 degrees)
- Younger age (less than 65)
- Good bone quality
- Non-smoker
- Optimal nutritional status
- Single failure mechanism
- First revision (versus multiple prior revisions)
Negative Predictors:
- Multiple prior revisions (greater than 2)
- Active smoking
- Severe osteoporosis (T-score less than -3.0)
- Multiple comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index greater than 3)
- Unrealistic expectations
- Psychological comorbidity (depression, chronic pain syndrome)
- Chronic opioid use preoperatively
Long-Term Outcomes
5-Year Outcomes:
- Fusion rate: 75-85% if first revision
- Adjacent segment disease: 20-30%
- Need for further revision: 20-30%
- Maintained improvement: 60-70% of those initially improved
10-Year Outcomes:
- Limited data due to heterogeneous patient population
- Cumulative revision rate: 30-40%
- Adjacent segment degeneration: 35-45%
- Patient satisfaction maintained: 50-60%
OUTCOMEOUTCOME Predictors for Success
Memory Hook:Patients with greater than 4 favorable factors have best outcomes - use for counseling
Evidence Base
- Overall complication rate 51% in revision adult deformity surgery (n=206)
- Major complications: neurological injury (8.7%), infection (12.1%), PJK (24.3%)
- Complication risk increased with each prior revision (OR 1.8 per revision)
- Teriparatide (20 mcg daily) for 6 months: fusion rate 88% vs 67% controls (p=0.02)
- Complication rates similar between groups
- Level II evidence for pharmacological enhancement of fusion in high-risk revisions
- PSO achieves mean lumbar lordosis correction of 31 degrees and SVA improvement of 87mm
- Neurological complication rate 11.1% (motor deficit 6.9%, sensory deficit 4.2%)
- Fusion rate 87% at 2 years
- PJK occurred in 39% of adult deformity patients at mean 18 months
- Risk factors: age greater than 55 (OR 2.1), osteoporosis (OR 3.2), UIV at T10-L2 (OR 2.8)
- Combined anterior-posterior surgery (OR 2.5); prophylactic measures reduced PJK incidence
- Staged revision (explant, antibiotics, reconstruct): 89% infection eradication rate
- Single-stage revision with hardware retention: 62% eradication rate (p=0.01)
- Staged approach required average 3.2 procedures but lower recurrent infection
Exam Viva Scenarios
Practice these scenarios to excel in your viva examination
Failed Deformity Surgery with Flatback
"A 68-year-old woman presents 2 years after T10-pelvis fusion for degenerative scoliosis. She reports excellent initial pain relief, but over the past 6 months developed progressive inability to stand upright. She can only walk 50 meters stooped forward with a walker. Examination shows she cannot achieve horizontal gaze when standing. Standing radiographs show SVA of 180mm, PI-LL mismatch of 45 degrees, and CT demonstrates solid fusion at all levels. She has osteoporosis (T-score -2.8) and controlled diabetes (HbA1c 6.8%)."
Early Proximal Junctional Kyphosis After Deformity Correction
"A 72-year-old man underwent T10-pelvis fusion for adult scoliosis 4 months ago. He initially did well but now presents with acute worsening back pain over 2 weeks and progressive forward stooping. Radiographs show new kyphosis of 35 degrees at T8-T9 with T9 compression fracture. His pain limits walking to inside his home only. Medical history includes osteoporosis (on alendronate), coronary artery disease with stents 3 years ago, and obesity (BMI 38)."
Exam Day Cheat Sheet
MCQ Practice Points
Exam Pearl
Q: What are the common indications for revision spinal deformity surgery?
A: Mechanical failures: Pseudarthrosis (most common), rod fracture, screw pullout, proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK)/failure (PJF), distal junctional failure, loss of correction. Clinical failures: Persistent pain (adjacent segment disease, nonunion), neurological deterioration (spinal stenosis, foraminal stenosis), infection (implant-associated). Inadequate initial correction: Persistent sagittal imbalance (SVA greater than 5cm), residual coronal deformity, flatback syndrome. Understanding why the primary surgery failed is critical for planning revision - addressing root cause prevents recurrent failure.
Exam Pearl
Q: What is proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and what are the risk factors?
A: PJK definition: Kyphosis greater than 10 degrees at the proximal junction (between upper instrumented vertebra and first non-instrumented vertebra) OR increase greater than 10 degrees from preoperative. Proximal junctional failure (PJF): Symptomatic PJK with structural failure (fracture, implant failure). Risk factors: Age greater than 60 years, osteoporosis, large sagittal correction (greater than 30 degrees), UIV at thoracolumbar junction (T10-L1), disruption of posterior ligamentous complex, long fusions to pelvis, high BMI, preoperative SVA greater than 5cm. Prevention: Optimize bone quality, consider prophylactic vertebroplasty, avoid abrupt transitions in stiffness.
Exam Pearl
Q: What preoperative planning is essential for revision deformity surgery?
A: Clinical assessment: Pain location, neurological status, functional limitations, patient expectations. Imaging: Full-length standing radiographs (sagittal and coronal balance), CT (assess fusion, screw position, bone quality), MRI (neural compression, disc degeneration, infection), consider DEXA (bone density). Laboratory: Inflammatory markers (rule out infection), nutritional markers (albumin, prealbumin). Calculate targets: Ideal lumbar lordosis (PI minus 10), target SVA (less than 5cm), pelvic parameters. Identify failure mechanism: Pseudarthrosis site, implant failure location, cause of junctional failure. Plan osteotomy type and level if correction needed.
Exam Pearl
Q: What osteotomy options are available for revision deformity surgery?
A: Smith-Petersen osteotomy (SPO): Posterior column only; 10 degrees correction per level; lowest morbidity; for flexible curves. Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO): Three-column osteotomy through pedicle; 25-35 degrees correction at single level; higher blood loss and complications; for fixed sagittal imbalance. Vertebral column resection (VCR): Complete vertebral removal; greatest correction potential (40+ degrees); highest risk (neurological injury, blood loss); for severe rigid deformities, sharp angular kyphosis. Anterior releases: Improve flexibility before posterior correction. Choice depends on amount of correction needed and curve flexibility.
Exam Pearl
Q: What strategies reduce complications in revision deformity surgery?
A: Preoperative optimization: Nutritional optimization (albumin greater than 3.5), bone health (calcium, vitamin D, consider teriparatide), smoking cessation, glucose control. Intraoperative: Staged surgery if needed (anterior then posterior), neuromonitoring, cell saver, careful hemostasis, experienced team. Implant considerations: Larger screws in osteoporotic bone, cement augmentation, interbody support for anterior column, extend fusion appropriately. Prevent junctional failure: Prophylactic vertebroplasty at UIV, tethering techniques, avoid UIV at T-L junction if possible. Infection prevention: Extended antibiotic prophylaxis, wound irrigation, consider vancomycin powder.
Australian Context
Australian Epidemiology and Practice
Australian Spinal Deformity Surgery:
- Revision deformity surgery is performed at major tertiary spine centres in Australia
- Key centres include Royal North Shore Hospital (Sydney), Austin Hospital (Melbourne), Princess Alexandra Hospital (Brisbane), and Royal Adelaide Hospital
- Australian Spine Society (ASS) provides guidelines and education for complex spinal surgery
- National Spinal Cord Injury Register tracks complications and outcomes
RACS Orthopaedic Training Relevance:
- Revision deformity surgery is an advanced FRACS Spine subspecialty examination topic
- Viva scenarios commonly test identification of failure mechanisms, osteotomy selection, and complication management
- Key exam focus: pseudarthrosis assessment (CT fusion criteria), sagittal balance parameters (SVA, PI-LL), PJK prevention strategies
- Examiners expect knowledge of when NOT to operate (prohibitive risk patients, unrealistic expectations)
Australian Spine Registry (SPIN):
- National spine surgery registry tracking outcomes and complications
- Provides Australian-specific data on revision rates and complications
- Registry data informs quality improvement initiatives
- Trainees should be aware of registry reporting requirements
eTG (Therapeutic Guidelines) Relevance:
- Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis follows eTG recommendations for spinal surgery
- Extended prophylaxis considered for revision surgery with longer operative times
- Vancomycin powder use increasing for high-risk revision cases
- VTE prophylaxis follows ANZCA guidelines for major surgery
Multidisciplinary Team Approach:
- Complex revision surgery requires multidisciplinary input (anaesthesia, internal medicine, nutrition, psychology)
- Australian hospitals typically have integrated teams for major spinal surgery
- Preoperative optimization protocols increasingly standardised across tertiary centres
- Pain medicine involvement essential for chronic pain patients undergoing revision
Training and Fellowship Pathway:
- Spine fellowship training typically follows FRACS completion
- Major spine centres offer AOSpine Fellowship positions
- Complex revision cases expose trainees to advanced techniques (osteotomies, complex fixation)
- Simulation training increasingly available for osteotomy procedures
Management Algorithm

High-Yield Exam Summary
Revision Deformity Essentials
- •Ultra-complex surgery with 40-60% complication rate
- •Common indications: pseudarthrosis (35-40%), PJK (25-30%), sagittal imbalance (20-25%), infection (10-15%)
- •Multiple failure mechanisms often coexist
- •Success requires identifying ALL failure modes
- •Comprehensive medical optimization essential (bone health, nutrition, smoking cessation)
- •Realistic outcome expectations: 60-70% meaningful improvement, not cure
Assessment Protocol - IMAGING Mnemonic
- •I - Identify failure mechanism (pseudarthrosis, PJK, alignment)
- •M - Measure sagittal parameters (SVA, PI-LL, PT)
- •A - Assess hardware (screws, rods, connectors)
- •G - Gold standard CT for fusion evaluation
- •I - Infection ruled out (CRP, ESR, MRI if needed)
- •N - Nuclear medicine if CT equivocal
- •G - Get bone density (DEXA mandatory)
- •CT with metal artifact reduction is gold standard (greater than 50% bridging = solid)
Complexity Grading
- •Grade 1 (Simple): Focal pseudarthrosis, solid elsewhere, 3-5 hours, 15-25% complications
- •Grade 2 (Moderate): Multilevel pseudarthrosis or PJK, SPO possible, 5-8 hours, 25-40% complications
- •Grade 3 (Complex): Major deformity, requires PSO, 8-12 hours, 40-60% complications
- •Grade 4 (Ultra-complex): Multiple prior revisions, severe rigid deformity, staged, 60-80% complications
Osteotomy Selection
- •SPO (Smith-Petersen): Posterior column release, 10 degrees/level, flexible deformity, lower neuro risk
- •PSO (Pedicle Subtraction): Three-column, 30-40 degrees/level, rigid flatback, 5-10% neuro risk
- •VCR (Vertebral Column Resection): Complete vertebrectomy, 50-70 degrees, 10-20% neuro risk
- •Match osteotomy to deformity magnitude and rigidity
Fixation Strategies
- •Screw revision: new trajectories, larger diameter (6.5mm), longer for bicortical, cement if osteoporotic
- •Supplemental fixation: hooks proximally, sublaminar wires, iliac screws mandatory for lumbosacral
- •Rod configuration: dual rods (four total), cobalt-chromium preferred, 6.0-6.35mm diameter
- •Biologics: autograft + allograft + BMP-2 (1.5mg/mL), teriparatide perioperatively
Surgical Strategy by Failure Mechanism
- •Pseudarthrosis: expose, remove fibrous tissue, decorticate, autograft + BMP, extend fixation 1 level each
- •PJK: extend 2-3 levels cranially, SPO if rigid, prophylactic vertebroplasty at new UIV
- •Flatback: PSO for 30-40 degree correction, dual rods, extend to upper thoracic, iliac screws
- •Distal junctional failure: revise lumbosacral junction, bilateral iliac/S2AI screws, cement
- •Infection: STAGED - explant/debridement/antibiotics 6-12 weeks, then reconstruct
Preoperative Optimization - Critical
- •Bone health: vitamin D greater than 30 ng/mL, calcium 1500mg daily, teriparatide 3-6 months preop
- •Nutrition: albumin greater than 3.5 g/dL, protein 1.5 g/kg/day
- •Smoking: ABSOLUTE cessation minimum 6 weeks, ideally 3 months
- •Glycemic control: HbA1c less than 7.0%
- •Weight: BMI less than 35 preferred
- •MRSA decolonization, dental clearance, psychology assessment
Major Complications and Rates
- •Neurological injury: 5-15% (higher with PSO/VCR), prevent with neuromonitoring
- •Infection: 8-15%, prevent with preop optimization, prophylactic antibiotics
- •Recurrent PJK: 20-30%, prevent with prophylactic vertebroplasty, gradual lordosis transition
- •Pseudarthrosis: 15-30%, prevent with smoking cessation, biologics, teriparatide
- •Medical complications: 10-20% (VTE, cardiac, pulmonary), early mobilization essential
Expected Outcomes - Realistic Counseling
- •Pain relief: 60-70% significant improvement (NOT pain-free)
- •Functional improvement: 50-60%
- •Fusion rate: 70-85%
- •Patient satisfaction: 50-65% (lower than primary)
- •Reoperation: 15-25% within 2 years
- •Positive predictors: solid fusion, SVA less than 50mm, non-smoker, first revision
- •Negative predictors: multiple revisions, smoking, severe osteoporosis, chronic pain syndrome
Examiner Expectations - Demonstrate Judgment
- •Show systematic assessment (identify ALL failure mechanisms)
- •Demonstrate knowledge of complex techniques (osteotomy, fixation)
- •Emphasize importance of medical optimization
- •Discuss realistic outcomes (moderate success, high complication rate)
- •Show judgment about when NOT to operate (prohibitive risk, unrealistic expectations)
- •Discuss multidisciplinary care (medicine, cardiology, nutrition, psychology)