Creation of a Porcine Kyphotic Model

Study DesignLarge animal study.ObjectiveCreate a thoracic hyperkyphotic deformity in an immature porcine spine, so that future researchers may use this model to validate spinal instrumentation and other therapies used in the treatment of hyperkyphosis.Summary of Background DataAlthough several scoliotic animal models have been developed, there have been no reports of a thoracic hyperkyphotic animal model creation in an immature animal. The present study was designed to produce a porcine hyperkyphotic model by the time the pig weighed 25 kg, which corresponds to the approximate weight of a child undergoing surgery for early-onset scoliosis (EOS).MethodsSuccessful surgical procedures were performed in 6 consecutive 10-kg (male, 5-week-old) immature Yorkshire pigs. Procedure protocol consisted of 1) a left thoracotomy at T10-T11, 2) screw placement at T9 and T11, 3) partial vertebrectomy at T10, 4) posterior interspinous ligament transection, and 5) placement of wire loop around screws and tightening. Weekly x-ray imaging was performed preoperatively and postoperatively, documenting progressively increasing kyphosis as the pig grew. Necropsy was performed 5-6 weeks after surgery, with CT, slab section, and histologic analysis.ResultsAverage T9-T11 kyphosis (measured by sagittal Cobb angle) was 6.1 degrees 1.4 degrees (mean SD) preoperatively, 30.5 degrees +/- 1.0 degrees immediately postoperation, and significantly increased to 50.3 degrees +/- 7.2 degrees (p < .0001) over 5-6 weeks in 6 consecutive pigs at time of necropsy.ConclusionsAn animal model of relatively more rigid-appearing thoracic hyperkyphotic deformities in immature pigs has been created. Subsequent studies addressing management of early-onset kyphosis with spinal instrumentation are now possible.Level of EvidenceLevel V