Spinal deformity after laminectomy occurs in children who undergo this surgery. Laminectomies most often are done in children for spinal cord tumors, neurofibromatosis and syringomyelia.

Kyphosis is the most common deformity that occurs after multiple-level laminectomies though in some cases, scoliosis may be associated.

After multiple level  laminectomy, bony and ligamentous deficiencies, neuromuscular imbalance, progressive deformity, and radiation therapy may cause instability of the spine.

It is postulated that after laminectomy, pressure is increased on the cartilaginous end plates of the vertebral bodies anteriorly, and with time, cartilage growth is decreased and vertebral wedging occurs leading to kyphosis. Radiation therapy has been associated with injury to the vertebral physis and subsequent spinal deformity and may lead to kyphosis as well.

Treatment

As treating the deformity is difficult,it is best to prevent the deformity from occurring if at all possible.

Facet joints should be preserved as far as possible when  laminectomy is necessary. Fusion at the time of facetectomy or laminectomy may help prevent progression of the deformity,

In case of an established deformity which is progressive spinal instrumentation like pedicle screw fixation and spinal fusion may be considered.