Early postoperative complications were common in non-ambulant paediatric patients with neuromuscular scoliosis

A high risk of postoperative complications has been reported after scoliosis surgery in ambulant and non-ambulant paediatric patients with neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS), including wound and respiratory infections. Low skeletal muscle mass is common in children with NMS, especially in non-ambulant patients, due to decreased mobility, malnutrition and underweight. They often rely on respiratory support and are at risk of developing hypoglycaemia during prolonged fasting. These patients are fragile and need special attention. A 33% rate of major complications has been reported in non-ambulatory children with cerebral palsy after spinal fusion.