The Use of Sublaminar Bands in Treatment of Spinal Deformity: An Operative Technique

Background:Pedicle screws are commonly used in the surgical treatment and correction of spinal deformity. In recent years, polyester bands have been used as adjuncts to pedicle screws and hooks. Currently, the implementation of polyester sublaminar bands in the treatment of pediatric spinal deformity has led to improved results with similar complications as other techniques. This paper further highlights the innovative use of sublaminar bands utilized in a hybrid construct leading to improved results. Furthermore, we describe the surgical technique and indications for sublaminar bands in pediatric spinal deformity. Methods:Innovative sublaminar band hybrid construct description and comparison to current practices regarding surgical indications, complications, and comparative outcomes compared to the use of pedicle screw fixation. Results:The described hybrid sublaminar band implementation further validates the use of hybrid constructs as an innovative method and approach to pediatric spinal deformity. Hybrid constructs with sublaminar band utilization may become more favored in the future as they continue to have a safe track record within the literature and are able to optimize sagittal correction better than an all-pedicle screw construct, all while reducing operative time, blood loss, and radiation exposure. Conclusions:This novel surgical technique of sublaminar band utilization offers a user-friendly procedure with a short learning curve. This technique, if applied in the correct surgical candidates, has been proven to be a successful method of spinal deformity correction in pediatric spinal fusions. Level of Evidence:Level IV.