Your new experience awaits. Try the new design now and help us make it even better

ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Front. Surg., 06 January 2026

Sec. Orthopedic Surgery

Volume 12 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fsurg.2025.1730301

This article is part of the Research TopicSurgical Advances in Orthopedic Trauma: A Biomechanical ApproachView all 25 articles

Biomechanical analysis of ponte osteotomy and PSO osteotomy in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity


Xu Zhu&#x;Xu ZhuAlimujiang Yusufu&#x;Alimujiang YusufuAjiguli WaisidingAjiguli WaisidingYuan Ma

Yuan Ma*
  • Department of Spinal Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) commonly progresses to thoracolumbar kyphosis. Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and Ponte osteotomy are frequently used surgical methods. However, systematic comparative biomechanical studies of these two methods are insufficient, and differences in postoperative mechanical complication risks remain unclear.

Objective: To compare the biomechanical characteristics of Ponte and PSO osteotomies in the treatment of AS with thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity, providing a biomechanical basis for clinical surgical decision-making.

Methods: Finite element models representing unresected (M0), Ponte osteotomy (M1), and PSO osteotomy (M2) conditions were constructed based on CT data from an AS patient. A vertical load of 500 N and moments of 10 N·m in each direction were applied to the T3 vertebral body. Six loading conditions, including flexion and extension, were simulated. Spinal range of motion (ROM), vertebral stress, internal fixation stress, and displacement were analyzed.

Results: Model validation showed that ROM of M0 was consistent with previous studies. After surgery, ROM significantly decreased in both osteotomies compared with M0, with M2 showing lower ROM than M1. In the M1 model, stress in the T3–T5 vertebral bodies decreased, but stress in T6 did not significantly change. In the M2 model, stress in T4–T5 vertebral bodies decreased, while stress in T7–T8 increased. Internal fixation stress in M1 was significantly lower than in M2 across all loading conditions, although displacement was greater in M1.

Conclusion: Ponte osteotomy distributes stress across multiple segments, reducing internal fixation load, and is therefore suitable for moderate kyphotic deformities. PSO osteotomy provides superior corrective capability but concentrates stress on distal vertebral segments, making it suitable for severe deformities. These results can guide clinical decisions for individualized surgical selection.

Introduction

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by gradual ossification of spinal ligaments, fibrous rings, and intervertebral joints as the disease progresses (1, 2). With the progressive development of thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity, compensatory backward rotation of the pelvis occurs to maintain overall sagittal balance. In advanced stages, symptoms such as low back pain, difficulty maintaining upright posture, and inability to gaze forward may develop (1, 3).

Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) is widely used to treat thoracolumbar kyphotic deformities in AS. This surgical method effectively reconstructs spinal sagittal alignment and significantly improves patients' quality of life (46). However, previous studies have indicated that PSO is associated with postoperative mechanical complications such as rod fracture, pseudarthrosis, and proximal junctional kyphosis (7, 8). Ponte osteotomy, first described by Ponte in 1987, involves complete resection of the thoracic articular processes, partial laminae, and entire ligamentum flavum. It is used to correct thoracic kyphotic deformities, achieving an average correction of approximately 30° (9).

Although both surgical techniques are widely applied in clinical practice, systematic comparative studies regarding their biomechanical characteristics remain limited. Previous research has primarily concentrated on clinical efficacy and imaging outcomes, insufficiently addressing critical aspects such as stress distribution at osteotomy sites, biomechanical responses of adjacent segments, and internal fixation load alterations. Clarifying biomechanical differences between these two osteotomies during deformity correction is crucial for optimizing surgical decision-making and reducing postoperative internal fixation failure and adjacent segment degeneration risks. Therefore, this study aims to compare the biomechanical characteristics of Ponte and PSO osteotomies in treating AS with thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity. Biomechanical analysis was conducted to investigate spinal force lines, stress distribution at osteotomy segments, and stability of internal fixation systems. This provides a biomechanical foundation for clinical selection, aiming to enhance surgical safety and long-term outcomes.

Materials and methods

Research subject

The CT images were obtained from a patient diagnosed with AS complicated by thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity. The patient was a 31-year-old woman, 153 cm tall, and weighed 41 kg. The primary manifestation was significant kyphosis in the thoracolumbar region. The patient's CT data were provided by the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, and the patient's family members were informed about the study protocol. This research was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University (Approval No.: LFYLLSC20230829-10) and complied with relevant ethical guidelines. The experiments were conducted at the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from May to July 2025.

Basic modeling procedure

Bone extraction and filling

Mimics software was used to differentiate soft tissue and bone structures based on their grayscale values. Initially, the “New Mask” function and adjustments of HU value ranges were used to create masks, preliminarily separating tissues. Subsequently, the “Split Mask” function was used to isolate the target bone masks. Due to limitations in CT image quality, software recognition, and HU value settings, the “Edit Mask” function was manually applied to fill or remove gaps and redundant structures layer-by-layer on the corresponding Dicom images. After processing, masks were converted into solid models through the “Calculate Part” function and exported as STL files for further processing (shown in Figure 1).

Figure 1
Three-panel composite image showing stages of digital reconstruction of a fossil specimen. The left panel shows a green 3D scan of a partially articulated fossil skeleton in lateral view. The middle panel presents a blue 3D model focusing on the vertebral column with anatomical alignment tools. The right panel displays the same vertebrae segmented and color-coded by individual bone in a digitally reconstructed orientation.

Figure 1. Extraction of aS thoracolumbar kyphotic bone model.

Model optimization

(1) Shape optimization: As finite element analysis (FEA) demands high-quality geometric models, further optimization was necessary: ① The STL file generated by Mimics was imported into Geomagic software. ② The polygon module was employed for “re-meshing” to ensure mesh uniformity. ③ Surface smoothing processes including “relaxation”, “noise removal,” and “spike removal” were applied to maintain anatomical features and smooth the model surface. ④ Manual refinements were performed using the “Remove Features” function. ③ After confirming no errors using the “Mesh Doctor,” the model was duplicated and offset to generate the cancellous bone structure. (2) Surface fitting and solid model creation: After optimization, the model underwent precise surface reconstruction in Geomagic: ① “Contour exploration” identified sharp corners and irregular features. ② “Build surface patches” covered the outer surface. ③ “Repair surface patches” was used to align closely with anatomical shapes. ④ “Create grids” wrapped the surface patches; ④ “Fit surface” converted the patches into a solid model, exported in STEP format (shown in Figure 2).

Figure 2
Three-panel image showing progressive digital modeling of a vertebral column. The left panel presents a rough blue 3D scan with surface irregularities. The middle panel shows a cleaned and smoothed version of the same vertebrae in blue. The right panel displays a fully refined anatomical model in green, with idealized and symmetrical vertebral structures.

Figure 2. Model optimization.

Assembly of various models

The model generated in Geomagic Studio was imported into SoildWorks 2023 (Dassault Systems, USA) in IGS (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) format. Intervertebral discs, nucleus pulposus, and articular cartilage were created, and different osteotomy procedures were simulated. The optimized models were accurately aligned and imported into Hypermesh 2021 (Altair, USA) to construct cortical bone, cancellous bone, and ligaments. Fine mesh division was carried out using appropriate meshing parameters and algorithms. These meshes served as the basis for subsequent simulation analyses, ensuring accurate and reliable results. Ansys software (Ansys, USA) was utilized for biomechanical computations (shown in Figure 3).

Figure 3
Five-panel wireframe illustration labeled A, B1, B2, C1, and C2 showing vertebral models with simulated spinal fixation. Panel A presents a standalone vertebral column. Panels B1 and B2 show lateral and posterior views with a straight fixation rod and pedicle screws. Panels C1 and C2 display a similar configuration with a curved rod. The wireframe emphasizes surface geometry and alignment.

Figure 3. Assembly of various models. (A) AS model without osteotomy; (B1/2) AS model with Ponte osteotomy; (C1/2) AS model with PSO osteotomy.

Mesh Generation and Material Properties The spinal model consisted of vertebral cortical bone, vertebral cancellous bone, endplates, nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, articular cartilage, titanium alloy internal fixation devices, and seven related ligaments. The ligaments included supraspinous, interspinous, intertransverse, ligamentum flavum, capsular, posterior longitudinal, and anterior longitudinal ligaments. Vertebral cortical bone was simulated using triangular linear strain shell elements with a thickness of 1 mm. Vertebral cancellous bone was modeled using tetrahedral first-order linear solid elements. The endplates were represented by rectangular linear strain shell elements. The annulus fibrosus matrix, nucleus pulposus, and facet joints were modeled using eight-node hexahedral solid elements. Ligaments were considered as linear elastic, isotropic materials, modeled using one-dimensional linear rod elements. Material properties for each spinal component were defined based on references (1012). Specific parameters are listed in Tables 1, 2.

Table 1
www.frontiersin.org

Table 1. Material parameters.

Table 2
www.frontiersin.org

Table 2. Material parameters (spinal ligaments).

For finite element construction of the AS spinal model, vertebral cancellous bone was simulated using four-node tetrahedral elements, whereas cortical bone was simulated using triangular and quadrilateral elements. The M0 model included 714,087 nodes and 437,126 elements. The M1 model contained 1,101,114 nodes and 650,708 elements. The M2 model comprised 1,002,010 nodes and 605,505 elements (Table 3).

Table 3
www.frontiersin.org

Table 3. Number of elements and nodes in the finite element models.

Loading conditions and observations

In the neutral position, the base of the T8 vertebral body was fixed and constrained. The upper surface of the T3 endplate was left unconstrained as the site for applied loads and torque. The “component method” was employed to determine the magnitude and direction of loading. This method simulated stress distributions due to body weight under different working conditions, ensuring loads were evenly transmitted to the surface nodes. A vertical load of 500 N and moments of 10 N·m in each direction were applied to the upper surface of the T3 lamina. This simulated forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral bending, and left and right rotation (Figure 4).

Figure 4
Digital model of a vertebral column segment showing color-coded vertebrae with simulated interconnecting ligaments represented by coiled lines. A red rotational arrow indicates applied motion or torque, and a 3D coordinate axis shows spatial orientation.

Figure 4. Loading diagram under forward flexion.

Main outcome measures

M0 model: Overall stress and ROM; M1 model: Stress at vertebral levels T3–T6, internal fixation stress, overall displacement, and ROM; M2 model: Stress at vertebral levels T4–T8, internal fixation stress, overall displacement, and ROM.

Results

Model validation

After establishing the T3–T8 finite element model, its validity was verified. Validation is essential to ensure the accuracy of material properties and reliability of the entire spinal model. The lower surface of T8 was fixed, and a vertical axial load of 500 N and a torque of 10 N·m in all directions were applied to the upper surface of T3. These conditions simulated spinal motion under six activities. Comparing the biomechanical results with those of previous studies by Kang et al. (13) and Zhang et al. (14), the ROM of the AS model (M0) under flexion, extension, left/right bending, and left/right rotation closely matched previous findings (Table 4, Figure 5).

Table 4
www.frontiersin.org

Table 4. Comparison of vertebral ROM between model M0 and previous studies.

Figure 5
Bar chart comparing range of motion (ROM) in degrees across six spinal movement directions—F, B, L-B, R-B, L-R, and R-R—for three models: M0 (pink), KANG (yellow), and ZHANG (green). M0 consistently shows higher ROM values, especially in F (flexion), while KANG and ZHANG display lower and variable ROM across motions.

Figure 5. Comparison of vertebral ROM between model M0 and previous studies. F, forward flexion; B, backward extension; L-R, left rotation; R-R, right rotation; L-B, left bending; R-B, right bending.

Comparison of overall ROM among different models

Compared with the normal model (M0), the overall ROM of models M1 and M2 significantly decreased under all six working conditions (Table 5).

Table 5
www.frontiersin.org

Table 5. Comparison of T3–T8 segment ROM in different models under various conditions (°).

Comparison of Von Mises stress extremes in T3–T6 vertebrae in model M1

Compared with M0, the Von Mises stress extremes of vertebrae T3, T4, and T5 in M1 were significantly reduced. In contrast, the stress extremes of vertebra T6 in M1 remained similar to M0 under different conditions (Table 6, Figure 6).

Table 6
www.frontiersin.org

Table 6. Von mises stress extremes of vertebrae under different conditions (Mpa).

Figure 6
Twenty-five colored contour plots arranged in a 5×5 grid, each showing a vertebra in superior view with stress distribution patterns from finite element analysis. Color scales range from blue (low stress) to red (high stress), with concentrated stress observed around the articular processes in several images. Each plot includes a color bar legend indicating the stress values in megapascals.

Figure 6. Von mises stress nephograms of T3-T6 vertebrae under different conditions in model M1. F, forward flexion; B, backward extension; L-R, left rotation; R-R, right rotation; L-B, left bending; R-B, right bending.

Comparison of Von Mises stress extremes in T4–T8 vertebrae in model M2

Compared with M0, the Von Mises stress extremes of vertebrae T4 and T5 in M2 significantly decreased. However, stress extremes of vertebrae T7 and T8 notably increased and were higher than those in model M0 (Table 6, Figure 7).

Figure 7
Twenty-five finite element analysis contour plots arranged in a 5×5 grid, each showing superior views of vertebrae with stress distribution under loading conditions. Color maps range from blue (low stress) to red (high stress), with most stress concentrated near the articular regions in a few models. Each plot includes a vertical color scale bar indicating stress values in megapascals.

Figure 7. Von mises stress nephograms of T4–T8 vertebrae under different conditions in model M2.

Comparison of internal fixation Von Mises stress extremes between models

Although model M1 exhibited greater displacement, its internal fixation stress was significantly lower than that of M2 under all loading conditions.(forward flexion, extension, left/right bending, and left/right rotation). See Table 7 and Figure 8 for details.

Table 7
www.frontiersin.org

Table 7. Internal fixation stress and displacement extremes of the two models under different conditions.

Figure 8
Twelve finite element analysis visualizations arranged in a 4×3 grid, each labeled A–F (top two rows) and a–f (bottom two rows), showing posterior views of a thoracic rib cage model under loading. Color gradients from blue (low stress) to red (high stress) indicate von Mises stress distribution, with values and legends specific to each scenario. Variations in stress patterns reflect differences in mechanical conditions or structural configurations.

Figure 8. Von mises stress nephograms of internal fixation under different conditions in the two models. (A–F) represents models M1 and M2 under the following six conditions: flexion, extension, left/right bending, and left/right rotation.

Comparison of internal fixation displacement extremes between models

The internal fixation displacement extremes were significantly greater in model M1 compared to model M2 under all six working conditions (forward flexion, extension, left/right bend, and left/right rotation). See Table 7 and Figure 9 for details.

Figure 9
Twelve finite element analysis plots arranged in a 4×3 grid, labeled A–F and a–f, showing lateral views of a thoracic rib cage model with displacement results. Each image uses a color gradient from blue (minimal displacement) to red (maximum displacement), indicating deformation under applied loading. Color bars display specific displacement values in millimeters, highlighting variations in structural response across different configurations.

Figure 9. Internal fixation displacement nephograms of the two models under different conditions. (A–F) represents models M1 and M2 under the following six conditions: flexion, extension, left/right bending, and left/right rotation.

Discussion

AS is a chronic rheumatic autoimmune disease primarily affecting the sacroiliac joints, spine, and peripheral joints. It significantly reduces the patient's quality of life and daily functioning (15, 16). Early AS symptoms typically include dull lower back pain and morning stiffness, which can improve after exercise. As the disease progresses, severe cases may involve ligament ossification, muscle stiffness, muscular atrophy, spinal rigidity, and kyphosis (17). Thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity in AS can result from minor trauma, characterized by spinal sagittal imbalance. Clinical manifestations include muscle dysfunction, fatigue, pain, and difficulty lying flat or walking normally. Thus, effective treatment of AS-related thoracolumbar kyphosis has become an important challenge in orthopedic surgery. Spinal osteotomy can effectively reconstruct sagittal spinal balance, restore horizontal gaze, and relieve organ compression in AS patients (18, 19). Surgeons may select osteotomy techniques according to the specific characteristics of spinal kyphosis, location of cervical vertebral curvature, degree of anterior longitudinal ligament calcification (bone bridge formation), and kyphotic angle magnitude (20). PSO is a progressive surgical method. It can preserve basic middle-column closure and anterior-column closure, or it can be modified into an anterior-column open osteotomy to achieve greater kyphosis correction. Therefore, PSO is widely applied in AS correction (21). Compared with higher-level osteotomies, Ponte osteotomy has the advantages of simpler operation, fewer osteotomy sites, and shorter operation time (9). However, limited reports exist on the biomechanical efficacy of these two osteotomies in treating AS with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Thus, this study established a finite element model of the human T3–T8 spine. PSO and Ponte osteotomies were simulated to analyze their biomechanical stability and provide a biomechanical basis for clinical decision-making.

Wang et al. (22) conducted a finite element analysis of titanium rods following surgical correction of Lenke type 5 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) from T3 to L5. Their results showed that the titanium rod experienced maximum stress at T11 for thoracic curves and at T12 for lumbar curves, specifically at the curve apex vertebrae. Vertebral stress distribution results revealed that the two surgical methods have different effects on spinal force transmission. In this study, Ponte osteotomy (M1) significantly reduced stress at T3–T5 compared to M0, while stress at T6 remained largely unchanged (Table 6). This suggests Ponte osteotomy achieves spinal correction through multi-level stress dispersion without significant stress concentration. Ponte osteotomy selectively releases facet joints, allowing gradual correction at multiple segments and avoiding excessive stress on a single vertebra. Conversely, PSO osteotomy (M2) substantially reduced stress in the osteotomized segments (T4–T5), but stress significantly increased distally at T7–T8 (Table 6). This finding suggests PSO may cause distal stress concentration due to changes in spinal force transmission. Mechanistically, PSO corrects spinal curvature via vertebral osteotomy, abruptly altering spinal alignment and increasing compensatory load on distal vertebrae. This likely explains the biomechanical basis for the increased clinical risk of adjacent segment degeneration after PSO (23). Therefore, in patients with long-segment kyphotic deformity, clinicians should carefully assess distal vertebral conditions after PSO, potentially extending the fixation segments to distribute stress effectively.

PSO was first reported in 1985. It involves extensive surgical resection across three spinal columns, preserving only the anterior longitudinal ligament. Currently, it is indicated for kyphotic deformities below 40° (24). Zhao et al. (25) reported 11 cases of rod breakage among 123 AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis treated by PSO, with an incidence rate of 8.9%. Stress and displacement outcomes of the internal fixation system further highlight biomechanical differences between the two surgical techniques. Internal fixation stress in the Ponte osteotomy group was significantly lower than in the PSO osteotomy group, while displacement was greater. This finding is directly associated with the distinct mechanical correction mechanisms of the two surgeries. PSO requires substantial distraction-compression forces via the internal fixation system to maintain wedge closure after vertebral osteotomy. This results in higher axial and bending loads on fixation devices, increasing the risk of rod breakage and screw loosening. These findings align with previous studies indicating a high rate of mechanical complications following PSO. Conversely, Ponte osteotomy achieves gradual correction by releasing the facet joints. Internal fixation primarily provides stabilization rather than active correction, leading to lower stress and a reduced risk of internal fixation failure. In this study, internal fixation displacement in the PSO group was smaller than that in the Ponte group (0.623 < 0.774, 0.339 < 0.435, 0.524 < 0.667, 0.471 < 0.586, 0.619 < 0.773, and 0.388 < 0.516). Because of small differences in resection angles, displacement differences were not substantial. Additionally, the moderate ROM preserved by Ponte osteotomy slightly increases internal fixation displacement. However, this displacement is within a physiologically acceptable range and does not compromise overall stability. Instead, it may reduce internal fixation fatigue fractures associated with overly rigid fixation.

This study has several limitations: ① It involved finite element analysis of a single case. Thus, model parameters may not fully reflect individual differences. ② The model did not account for dynamic factors such as muscle forces, and ligaments were simulated as linear elastic materials rather than incorporating their nonlinear, hyperelastic properties. These simplifications, while common in comparative FE studies, likely result in an overestimation of segmental motion and an underestimation of overall spinal stiffness. Consequently, the absolute values of vertebral stress and internal fixation stress might be influenced. However, since these simplifications were applied consistently across all models (M0, M1, M2), the core comparative conclusions regarding the biomechanical differences between Ponte and PSO osteotomies are expected to remain valid. ③ During model construction, other factors such as material homogeneity, mesh division, and boundary conditions were simplified, which might also cause deviations between the model and the actual anatomical structures (26). Future studies could use a variety of patient-specific models or parametric analysis methods to verify the universality of the results in the population to validate the long-term mechanical stability of both surgical methods across varying deformity severities.

In conclusion, Ponte osteotomy and PSO osteotomy each have distinct biomechanical advantages. Ponte osteotomy distributes stress effectively and involves low-load fixation, making it suitable for patients with moderate deformities or high surgical risks. PSO osteotomy offers strong correction capability and high stability, making it preferable for sagittal reconstruction of severe deformities. These findings provide critical biomechanical evidence for individualized surgical procedure selection, helping to minimize postoperative complications and enhance long-term outcomes.

Data availability statement

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

Ethics statement

The studies involving humans were approved by y the Ethics Committee of the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University with the ethical batch (Approval No.: LFYLLSC20230829-10). The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. The participants provided their written informed consent to participate in this study.

Author contributions

XZ: Data curation, Funding acquisition, Writing – original draft. AY: Investigation, Software, Writing – original draft. AW: Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. YM: Project administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Writing – review & editing.

Funding

The author(s) declared that financial support was received for this work and/or its publication. The study was funded by the Natural Science Foundation Project of the Xinjiang Science and Technology Department (No. 2023D01C160). It received approval from the Ethics Committee of the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University.

Acknowledgments

The authors sincerely thank the entire staff of the Department of Spinal Surgery, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, for their assistance throughout the study.

Conflict of interest

The author(s) declared that this work was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Generative AI statement

The author(s) declared that generative AI was not used in the creation of this manuscript.

Any alternative text (alt text) provided alongside figures in this article has been generated by Frontiers with the support of artificial intelligence and reasonable efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, including review by the authors wherever possible. If you identify any issues, please contact us.

Publisher's note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Abbreviations

AS, ankylosing spondylitis; PSO, pedicle subtraction osteotomy; ROM, range of motion; FEA, finite element analysis; T, thoracic vertebra; AIS, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

References

1. Zhang SW, Wang H, Sheng WB. Evaluation of preoperative prediction methods for kyphotic deformity osteotomy angles in ankylosing spondylitis patients. Chin J Spine Spinal Cord. (2024) 34(09):921–9. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1004-406X.2024.09.04

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

2. Wu Z, Qian B, Zhao S, Huang J, Qiu Y, Wang B, et al. Effect of lowest instrumented vertebra selection on pelvic incidence in ankylosing spondylitis patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis who underwent pedicle subtraction osteotomy. Chin J Anat Clin. (2022) 27(5):312–7. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn101201-20210720-00182

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

3. Walker J. Ankylosing spondylitis. Nurs Stand. (2006) 20(46):48–52. doi: 10.7748/ns.20.46.48.s56

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

4. Lu J, Qian B, Qiu Y, Wang B, Yu Y, Qiao M. Curative effect of pedicle subtraction osteotomy combined with satellite rod for thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis. Chin J Anat Clin. (2024) 29(1):29–35. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn101202-20230610-00144

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

5. Qian B-p, Wang X-h, Qiu Y, Wang B, Zhu Z-z, Jiang J, et al. The influence of closing-opening wedge osteotomy on sagittal balance in thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis: a comparison with closing wedge osteotomy. Spine. (2012) 37(16):1415–23. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e318250dc95

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

6. Qi P, Song K, Zhang YG, Wang Y, Cui G. Correlation between postoperative pelvic tilt angle and sacral tilt angle ratio and quality of life in ankylosing spondylitis patients. J Chin Orthop Surg. (2016) 36(1):6. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2352.2016.01.003

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

7. Harimaya K, Mishiro T, Lenke LG, Bridwell KH, Koester LA, Sides BA. Etiology and revision surgical strategies in failed lumbosacral fixation of adult spinal deformity constructs. Spine. (2011) 36(20):1701–10. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e3182257eaf

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

8. Kim Y-C, Lenke LG, Hyun S-J, Lee J-H, Koester LA, Blanke KM. Results of revision surgery after pedicle subtraction osteotomy for fixed sagittal imbalance with pseudarthrosis at the prior osteotomy site or elsewhere: minimum 5 years post-revision. Spine. (2014) 39(21):1817–28. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000000526

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

9. Ding Z, Zhang SL, Shi Q, Gao B, Yan M. Ponte osteotomy combined with satellite rods for the treatment of senile osteoporotic old fracture with kyphotic deformity in the thoracolumbar spine. J Pract Orthop. (2025) 31(1):20–4.

Google Scholar

10. Duan YJ, Ma JY, Li H, Li L, Ma Y. Biomechanical characteristics of osteolytic correction with and without cancellous bone and total osteotomy for kyphosis spinal osteotomy: finite element analysis. Chin J Tissue Eng. (2017) 21(31):5019–24. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2095-4344.2017.31.017

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

11. Liu J, Zhang HS, Ding YW, Jiang Q, Li S, Huang J, et al. Finite element analysis of interbody fusion with pedicle fixation assisted endoscopic treatment for severe lumbar spinal stenosis. Chin J Tissue Eng. (2024) 28(24):3789–95. doi: 10.12307/2024.611

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

12. Dreischarf M, Zander T, Shirazi-Adl A, Puttlitz CM, Adam CJ, Chen CS, et al. Comparison of eight published static finite element models of the intact lumbar spine: predictive power of models improves when combined together. J Biomech. (2014) 47(8):1757–66. doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2014.04.002

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

13. Kang ZJ, Cao ZH, Xu YY, Zhang Y, Jin F, Su B, et al. Establishment of finite element model and stress analysis of lumbar-sacral intervertebral disc in ankylosing spondylitis. Chin J Tissue Eng. (2024) 28(6):840–6. doi: 10.12307/2023.799

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

14. Zhang T, Wang Y, Zhang P, Xue F, Zhang D, Jiang B. Different fixation pattern for thoracolumbar fracture of ankylosing spondylitis: a finite element analysis. PLoS One. (2021) 16(4):e0250009. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250009

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

15. Zhang YH, Qu XC, Dou KN, Liu Y. Value of multimodal MRI imaging in assessing in­ammatory activity of hip joint lesions in ankylosing spondylitis. Hainan Med J. (2022) 33(16):2127–30. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1003-6350.2022.16.023

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

16. Lee YH. Comparative efficacy and safety of Janus kinase inhibitors and secukinumab in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pharmacology. (2022) 107(11–12):537–44. doi: 10.1159/000525627

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

17. Guo H, Zhang YM. Efficacy and effects on neurological and pulmonary functions of PSO combined with long-segment vertebral artery screw fixation in treating ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Hainan Med J. (2025) 36(12):1710–4. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1003-6350.2025.12.008

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

18. Mao SH, Feng ZX, Qian BP, Zhu Z, Wang B, Yu Y, et al. The effect of ossification of the pars interarticularis anterior longitudinal ligament on correction of ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar kyphosis by PSO. J Chin Orthop Surg. (2017) 37(10):595–603. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2352.2017.10.003

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

19. Ji ML, Qian BP, Qiu Y, Wang X, Wang B, Yu Y, et al. Effects of facet “V” -shaped osteotomy and pedicle vertebral osteotomy on spinal-pelvic complex balance. J Chin Orthop Surg. (2013) 33(6):607–14. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.0253-2352.2013.06.003

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

20. Qian B-p, Mao S-h, Jiang J, Wang B, Qiu Y. Mechanisms, predisposing factors, and prognosis of intraoperative vertebral subluxation during pedicle subtraction osteotomy in surgical correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis. Spine. (2017) 42(16):E983–e90. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000002015

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

21. Ji M-l, Qian B-p, Qiu Y, Wang B, Mao S-h, Zhu Z-z, et al. Change in abdominal morphology after surgical correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis: a computed tomographic study. Spine. (2015) 40(23):E1244–9. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000001112

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

22. Wang YP, Su BK, Wang W, Lu C, Liu Z, Li Z, et al. Finite element analysis of titanium rods after posterior correction for lenke type 5 thoracolumbar scoliosis in adolescents. Chin Contemp Med. (2021) 28(6):4–7. 16,3-4. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-4721.2021.06.003

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

23. Yang C, Zeng Z, Yan H, Wu J, Lv X, Zhang D, et al. Application of vertebral body compression osteotomy in pedicle subtraction osteotomy on ankylosing spondylitis kyphosis: finite element analysis and retrospective study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). (2023) 14:1131880. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1131880

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

24. Xie J, Guo HL, Li H, Dai J, Zhu X. Finite element analysis of sagittal plane balance of whole-spine osteotomy reconstruction for ankylosing spondylotic kyphosis. Chin J Tissue Eng. (2021) 25(33):5259–64. .org/doi: 10.12307/2021.311

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

25. Shekouhi N, Vosoughi AS, Zavatsky JM, Goel VK, Theologis AA. Biomechanical comparison of multi-rod constructs by satellite rod configurations (in-line vs. lateral) and screw types (monoaxial vs. polyaxial) spanning a lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO): is there an optimal configuration? Eur Spine J. (2022) 31(11):3050–9. doi: 10.1007/s00586-022-07331-7

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

26. Wang H, Li ZH, Liang X, Xu X, Liu Q, Yang P, et al. Finite element analysis of stress distribution of proximal intervertebral discs near the upper end after spinal thoracolumbar kyphosis correction in young women. Chin J Disaster Relief Med. (2021) 9(10):1265–70. doi: 10.13919/j.issn.2095-6274.2021.10.002

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: ankylosing spondylitis, osteotomy, ponte osteotomy, PSO osteotomy, biomechanics

Citation: Zhu X, Yusufu A, Waisiding A and Ma Y (2026) Biomechanical analysis of ponte osteotomy and PSO osteotomy in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity. Front. Surg. 12:1730301. doi: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1730301

Received: 22 October 2025; Revised: 25 November 2025;
Accepted: 30 November 2025;
Published: 6 January 2026.

Edited by:

Wenqi Song, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

Reviewed by:

Donghui Cao, Ningxia Medical University, China
Yehia Elbromboly, Zagazig University, Egypt

Copyright: © 2026 Zhu, Yusufu, Waisiding and Ma. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Yuan Ma, WGpqZ3l5bXlAMTI2LmNvbQ==

These authors have contributed equally to this work and share first authorship

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.