R Tarrant

Rationale: Although several studies demonstrate a comparably lower weight and body mass index (BMI) in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), no study has yet quantified unintentional postoperative weight loss after major spinal deformity surgery in this already ‘thin’ patient population, and examined its impact on outcomes. Methods: Seventy seven consecutive and eligible patients with AIS who underwent posterior spinal fusion (PSF) were prospectively follow-up from hospital admission (Jan 2010-April 2012). Pre- and postoperative anthropometric measurements were collected (weight, height, BMI) and unintentional weight loss from admission to hospital discharge recorded. Using the British 1990 growth reference data, BMI values were standardised by conversion to age- and gender-specific Z-scores (Z-score < -2 defined as Grade 2/3 undernutrition). Sociodemographic, biochemical, nutritional and perioperative complication data were obtained. Descriptive statistics using SPSS® was...