Table 3 Proposed treatment algorithm in the treatment of PCSTK

Anterior

1,mild kyphosis, less than 30° and after preoperative halo traction, the kyphosis changed to less than 5-10°;

2,single segment lesion and confined to the anterior and central column of spine;

3,spinal cord compression by paravertebral/epidural abscess or retropharyngeal abscess resulting in dyspnea and/or dysphagia;

4, the age less than 6 years old, and cannot suffer too much trauma.

Posterior

1,the lesion limited to the posterior column of spine and the compression to spinal cord from the posterior column ;

2, the history of anterior surgery.

Combined Anterior and Posterior

1, severe kyphosis angle, more than 30° or mild kyphosis deformity but progressive instability;

2, multilevel (≥2 levels) continuous segments and anterior column damaged severely or complicated by long-segment cervical spinal stenosis;

3, the age of children more than 6 years old.