Cut-off point of the Scoliometer in school scoliosis screening

Developing a new tool for scoliosis screening in a tertiary specialistic setting using artificial intelligence: a retrospective study on 10,813 patients: 2023 SOSORT award winner

PURPOSE

The study aims to assess if the angle of trunk rotation (ATR) in combination with other readily measurable clinical parameters allows for effective non-invasive scoliosis screening.

METHODS

We analysed 10,813 patients (4-18 years old) who underwent clinical and radiological evaluation for scoliosis in a tertiary clinic specialised in spinal deformities. We considered as predictors ATR, Prominence (mm), visible asymmetry of the waist, scapulae and shoulders, familiarity, sex, BMI, age, menarche, and localisation of the curve. We implemented a Logistic Regression model to classify the Cobb angle of the major curve according to thresholds of 15, 20, 25, 30, and 40 degrees, by randomly splitting the dataset into 80-20% for training and testing, respectively.

RESULTS

The model showed accuracies of 74, 81, 79, 79, and 84% for 15-, 20-, 25-, 30- and 40-degrees thresholds, respectively. For all the thresholds ATR, Prominence, and visible asymmetry of the waist were the top five most important variables for the prediction. Samples that were wrongly classified as negatives had always statistically significant (p ≪ 0.01) lower values of ATR and Prominence. This confirmed that these two parameters were very important for the correct classification of the Cobb angle. The model showed better performances than using the 5 and 7 degrees ATR thresholds to prescribe a radiological examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Machine-learning-based classification models have the potential to effectively improve the non-invasive screening for AIS. The results of the study constitute the basis for the development of easy-to-use tools enabling physicians to decide whether to prescribe radiographic imaging.

Is Surface Topography Useful in the Diagnosis of Scoliosis? Validation of the Biometrical Holistic of Human Body (BHOHB)

BACKGROUND

The concern around repeated exposure to X-rays has been motivating doctors involved in scoliosis to seek alternative solutions. Surface topography (ST) analysis is a modern system that has been shown to have good results. The purpose of the study is to validate the new BHOHB hardware for the investigation of scoliosis in adolescents by comparing it to X-ray examinations and to assess the reliability of intraoperator and interoperator tests.

METHODS

Ninety-five patients were enrolled in our study. All the patients were analyzed via the BHOHB method 2 times by 2 independent physicians (t0) and for a second time 2 or 3 months later (t1). The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the relationship between the measurements obtained by BHOHB and the gold standard. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess intra- and interoperator reliability. Statistical analysis was performed with the GraphPad Prism 8 software.

RESULTS

The correlations between the first and second operators in the measurements and between the BHOHB method and X-ray showed a very good to excellent r for both. A very good correlation was also confirmed for prominence measured by operators and by the BHOHB machine. Intra- and interoperator reliability was found to be very positive for both the first and the second physicians.

CONCLUSIONS

We can state that ST can be useful for diagnosing and treating scoliosis. The recommendation is to use it primarily to evaluate the evolution of the curve, as in this mode, you can reduce the patient's exposure to X-rays. The results indicate that BHOHB measures are comparable to radiographs and not influenced by the operator.

Morphological differences in scoliosis curvatures as a cause of difficulties in its early detection based on angle of trunk inclination

INTRODUCTION

The three dimensional deformation of the spine in scoliosis is specific for a given child with regard to the number and length of curvatures, their degree of rotation and the size of the curvature angle. Early diagnosis of scoliosis in a clinical examination according to the Adams test depends on the correlation between the angle of trunk inclination (ATI) and the Cobb angle and the adopted diagnosis criterion. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the need to adopt different diagnostic criteria for ATI depending on the age and location of scoliosis. Moreover, the observed differences in the ATI/Cobb correlation became the basis for the proposal to introduce the concept of low, medium and high-rotated of curvature to the clinical description of scoliosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The group consisted of 229 children who were first examined, aged 6 to 17 years, with an average age of -11.57 years (SD ± 3.26), with symptoms of idiopathic scoliosis. The correlation of the criteria for the diagnosis of scoliosis in the ATI 7° clinical trial with a Cobb angle of 10° three dimensional in the X-ray image was used to distinguish three types of curvature/scoliosis, i.e., low, medium and high rotation. The frequencies of each type were compiled for three age groups and three scoliosis locations. Moreover, the degree of vertebral rotation according to the Perdriolli (AVR) of curvature was correlated with the Cobb angle and ATI. A one-way logistic regression model was used to assess the effectiveness of scoliosis detection in children based on the measurement of the ATI angle alone and the measurement of both ATI and Cobb angles.

RESULTS

Low-rotated curves were most often found in the age groups of 6-9 and 10-12 years in 65.6% and 71.4% of patients, respectively (p < 0.05). Medium-rotated curvatures were most common in the age group of 13-17 years - 51.6%. With regard to the localization of scoliosis, the low-rotated curvatures were significantly more frequently (p < 0.05) found in the lumbar and thoracolumbar spine. Moreover, the univariate regression model for ATI showed that we could detect scoliosis best by taking the cut-off point of 5° and the mathematically determined Cobb angle was 9.5°. Patients with ATI ≥ 7° had significantly higher AVR values ​​than those with ATI < 7°, and the ATI/AVR correlation was of average strength.

CONCLUSION

The specific morphology of the scoliotic curvature of the child's spine may be manifested by the difference in the ATI/Cobb correlation depending on the location of the scoliosis and change with age. The curvatures of the scoliosis that form can be low, medium and high-rotated, and the low-rotated curvatures were most often found in the 6-9- and 10-12-year-old groups and in the lumbar and thoracolumbar section. To increase the rate of early diagnosis of scoliosis, the results suggest the need to adopt two ATI criteria for the diagnosis of scoliosis at screening, 5° for age of 6-12 years, and when asymmetry affects the lumbar and thoracolumbar section, and 7° for the remaining children.

The importance of the size of the trunk inclination angle in the early detection of scoliosis in children

BACKGROUND

Early detection of idiopathic scoliosis is one factor in determining treatment effectiveness. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the importance of the size of the trunk inclination angle (ATI) for the early detection of scoliosis in preschool- and school-age children, taking into account the location and size of the spine curvature.

METHODS

The study included a group of 216 children (mean age 11.54 years, standard deviation ± 3.05), who had previously untreated idiopathic scoliosis and a Cobb angle of ≥ 10°. The ATI values were compared with the corresponding Cobb angle values. The results of the ATI-Cobb correlation were compared to the ATI thresholds of 5° and 7°.

RESULTS

In the age groups 6-9, 10-12 and 13-17 years, the method sensitivity for the ATI ≥ 7° criterion was low at 33.90%, 27.69% and 51.29% (p < 0.05), respectively, while for the ATI ≥ 5° criterion, it was 67.8%, 69.23% and 93.48% (p < 0.05), respectively. With respect to location, significantly more frequent misdiagnoses (p < 0.05) were related to the lumbar and thoracolumbar (regions) sections of the spine in the groups aged 6-9 and 10-12 for ATI ≥ 7°; while no significant relationship was found at ATI ≥ 5°. For both ATI levels, the most frequent cases of mis- or undiagnosed scoliosis were observed among children with a Cobb angle of 10°-14° (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

A low predictive ATI value was demonstrated regarding scoliosis detection for the ATI 7° criterion in children aged 6-9 and 10-12 years, particularly for the lumbar and thoracolumbar locations. Adoption of the threshold of ATI 5° in screening tests for children aged 6-12 years, as well as for lower locations of scoliosis, may be more effective in the early detection of scoliosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was approved by the Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa Ethics Committee KE-U/7/2021, and conducted under the Declaration of Helsinki.

Design, reliability, and validity of a portable electronic device based on ergonomics for early screening of adolescent scoliosis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

The reported incidence of scoliosis among adolescents in China differs according to screening method owing to the lack of uniformity and limitations of certain techniques. We aimed to design, develop, and validate a non-invasive, accurate, portable, fast, and automated tool that would enable the measurement and storage of data during scoliosis screening.

METHODS

We designed a new portable electronic scoliosis screening device (PESSD)-for the identification of adolescent scoliosis based on ergonomics theory. The device measured the axial deflection angle of the trunk of the human body using a built-in angle sensor. Data obtained using the PESSD, a traditional scoliometer manual ruler, and X-ray measurement of the Cobb angle were compared.

RESULTS

The PESSD exhibited more sensitive detection of small-angle scoliosis and improved repeatability compared with the scoliometer. The data obtained using the PESSD showed good correlation with Cobb angle data measured from X-ray images. All patients who were indicated to be positive for scoliosis using the PESSD were found to have clinically identifiable scoliosis from X-ray examination.

CONCLUSIONS

The PESSD may be able to achieve early detection of scoliosis in adolescents. It is non-invasive, highly precise, portable, easy to use, and offers automated data storage and traceability. This study is a pilot or preliminary validation study. With further, more in depth studies, the PESSD has excellent potential for transformation into an effective tool for use in large-scale screening programs for adolescent scoliosis in schools and communities.

THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE

This article is about designing a new portable electronic scoliosis screening device based on ergonomics theory. Because there are currently no uniform screening methods and standards, the results in this article could facilitate the adoption of a uniform screening tool into large-scale screening programs for adolescent scoliosis in schools and communities, preliminary examination in hospitals, and self-testing at home after parent training.

Increased Computer Use is Associated with Trunk Asymmetry That Negatively Impacts Health-Related Quality of Life in Early Adolescents

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of trunk asymmetry on the health-related quality of life of early adolescents and to identify daily activities that were associated with trunk asymmetry in this cohort.

METHODS

This study included 200 early adolescents (52 male and 148 female) aged 10 to 14 years in Hong Kong. Among them, 100 adolescents were considered to have trunk asymmetry with angle of trunk rotation ≥5° and one or more physical signs on visual inspection. The 36-Item Short Form Health Survey was used to measure the eight scales under the physical and mental domains of the health-related quality of life. The adolescents reported their average daily durations spent (1) using a computer; (2) using a smartphone; (3) watching television, videos or DVDs; (4) doing homework; and (5) doing physical exercise. Independent samples t-tests, chi-square (χ ²) tests or Mann-Whitney U-tests were performed to compare the health-related quality of life and the average daily duration of daily activities between early adolescents with and without trunk asymmetry. Logistic regression was performed to investigate the odds ratios of daily activities for trunk asymmetry.

RESULTS

Compared with early adolescents without trunk asymmetry, those with trunk asymmetry had a lower health-related quality of life in some of the physical domains, namely, bodily pain and general health, and all mental domains, namely, vitality (energy/fatigue), social functioning, role limitation due to emotional problems and mental health (p < 0.05). Use of computer was found to be significantly associated with trunk asymmetry in early adolescents (OR = 1.63, 95% CI [1.23, 2.14]).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that increased computer use is associated with trunk asymmetry, which negatively impacts the health-related quality of life in early adolescents.

Reliability of a New Smartphone Accessory for Scoliosis Measurements

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common pathology of the children’s spine, identified as spine lateral curvature with Cobb angle greater than 10°. The rapid development of technology allows, even mobile devices, to perform a quick and cheap diagnosis ensuring an accuracy similar to the Bunnell scoliometer.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to validate the accuracy of a newly developed accessory for measuring the angle of trunk rotation (ATR) using mobile devices.

METHODS: ATR measurements were carried out on a group of 30 adults using 3 diagnostic tools: the Bunnell scoliometer, Scolioscreen, and mScolio designed by the authors. Scolioscreen and mScolio were used together with a smartphone and the Clinometer app. Three measurements were performed using each of the methods.

RESULTS: The greatest data discrepancy was obtained between the Bunnell scoliometer and Scolioscreen (-3.7°÷4.4°) and was twice larger than between the Bunnell scoliometer and mScolio (-1.8°÷2.1°). The excellent agreement was obtained for the mScolio device, where the concordance correlation coefficient was 0.9381 (95% CI of 0.9076÷0.9588) and the interclass correlation coefficient was 0.9501 (95% CI of 0.9242÷0.9671).

CONCLUSIONS: Tests showed excellent reliability and validity of ATR using the mScolio solution. Obtained results show excellent consistency between mScolio and the Brunnell scoliometer measurements.

Epidemiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in Isfahan, Iran: A school-based study during 2014-2015

Background:

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine with lateral curvature in addition to the rotation of vertebral bodies. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in our society and its demographic-related factors.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study that took place from November 2014 to March 2015 in Isfahan, Iran. During the period of study, 24 schools were randomly chosen from six zones by a simple random sampling method. In each school, about 120 students were randomly selected and evaluated. Anterior forward bending test and scoliometry were done in all students and suspicious ones referred to Alzahra spine clinic for further evaluation. The diagnosis of AIS was based on radiographic finding and Cobb angle more than 10°. Data about age, sex, height, body mass index, hand dominancy, and type of schoolbag were recorded.

Results:

A total number of 3018 children were evaluated and 19 were diagnosed with AIS that showed the prevalence of 0.62%. None of the study variables had a significant relation with the presence of AIS. The cutoff point for the detection of AIS with scoliometry was calculated as 3.5, with a sensitivity of 73.7% and specificity of 86.7%.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of AIS in our area was 0.62%, which was lower than previous reports and did not have a relation with demographic factors; however, screening surveys identify a significant number of children with AIS who could benefit from preventive treatment.

Evaluation of a new apparatus combining a mobile device and hand-held roller for the detection of spinal deformities: association with the sum of the right and left angles of trunk inclination

PURPOSE

To investigate the intra- and inter-observer reliabilities of the newly developed i-Scolioroller for scoliosis screening, and to determine the optimal i-Scolioroller measurement cutoff values for identifying adolescent scoliosis with a Cobb angle ≥ 20°.

METHODS

The i-Scolioroller displays the right- and left-side maximum inclination angle (Rmax, Lmax) during the forward bending test (FBT), as well as the angle of trunk inclination (ATI, i.e., whether the Rmax or Lmax is greater). Sum-ATI is defined as the sum of Rmax and Lmax. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) of the ATI and sum-ATI measurements were calculated to analyze the intra- and inter-observer reliabilities for 10 plaster torsos in FBT positions obtained from patients with idiopathic scoliosis. The optimal cutoff values for scoliosis were determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of i-Scolioroller measurements versus Cobb angles obtained from the upright whole-spine radiographs of 112 adolescent outpatients.

RESULTS

The intra-observer ICCs for the ATI/sum-ATI for 3 observers were 0.851/0.856, 0.786/0.900, and 0.772/0.796, respectively, while the corresponding inter-observer ICCs for all participants were 0.733/0.745. On ROC analysis, an ATI of 8° was the optimal cutoff value for scoliosis (sensitivity and specificity: 79.2% and 70.0%, respectively). The optimal cutoff value for sum-ATI was 11° (sensitivity and specificity: 86.1% and 82.5%, respectively). The areas under the ROC curves were 0.859 for ATI and 0.908 for sum-ATI.

CONCLUSION

The optimal cutoff values for identifying scoliosis using the i-Scolioroller were a combination of 11° for the sum-ATI and 8° for the ATI.

Validation of the Measurement of the Angle of Trunk Rotation in Photogrammetry

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to validate the photogrammetric measurement of the angle of trunk rotation in relation to the scoliometer instrument.

METHODS

Fifty-eight prominences from individuals with ages between 7 and 18 and with suspicion of spinal asymmetry (SA) were evaluated through the scoliometer and photogrammetry. The photographs were analyzed in the Digital Image-based Postural Assessment software. For statistical purposes, we used Pearson's correlation test (r), root mean square error, Bland-Altman graphical analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curve. The level of significance was P ≤ .05.

RESULTS

Excellent correlation for the angle of trunk rotation was obtained between the scoliometer and photogrammetry, with a root mean square error of 3°. The Bland-Altman graphical analysis showed equally dispersed data with no participants outside the limits of agreement. The receiver operating characteristic curve evidenced that (1) the cutoff point for the identification of the presence of spinal asymmetry is 4°; (2) mild to moderate SA is between 4° and 7°; (3) moderate to severe SA is above 8°; and (4) sensitivity and specificity were above 83% and 78%, respectively, with an area under the curve ≥ 90%.

CONCLUSION

Photogrammetry is validated for measuring the angle of trunk rotation, being an accurate and accessible tool for the evaluation of patients with spinal asymmetries.

The Angle of Trunk Rotation in School Children: A Study from an Idiopathic Scoliosis Screening. Prevalence and Optimal Age Screening Value

(1) Background: Idiopathic scoliosis is a deformity of the growing spine. It affects 2–3% of adolescents; yet its cause is still unknown. At the early stage of idiopathic scoliosis (IS), the signs are not very noticeable. That is why the primarily school-based screening for scoliosis is so important. (2) Methods: This was a cross-sectional analysis of 6850 respondents. Participants were elementary school students in the metropolitan area of Poland. The suspicion of IS was based on detection of three-dimensional deformity of the spine using scoliometer. (3) Results: Respondents were divided into two groups: Angle of trunk rotation (ATR) = 0–3º and ATR > 3º. Presented research using a referral criterion of 5º ATR showed that in the group of participants who had ATR > 3º the largest percentage of 5 degree values was recorded at the second and third measurement level of the spine (30.5%, 31.1%, respectively). Analyzing the differences between the two groups of girls (ATR = 0–3º, ATR > 3º), statistically significant differences were recorded between 9 and 11 years of age (p = 0.0388). Girls with ATR > 3º at all measuring levels are significantly slimmer than girls with ATR 0–3º; (4) Conclusions: Age; sex, and risk of developing angle of trunk rotation are very closely associated. The main thoracic (level 2) and thoraco-lumbar (level 3) level of measuring of the spine appears to be the most differentiating in the diagnosis of scoliosis. Girls with a lower degree of trunk deformity (4–6º trunk rotation), which can present mild scoliosis and those with a higher degree (7º trunk rotation) have lower body mass than girls within the norm.

Adiposity-Age Distribution and Nutritional Status in Girls With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional comparative study.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the adiposity-age distribution in girls with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and to define the prevalence of underweight, overweight, and obesity in these patients as compared with healthy controls.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The current literature focusing the nutritional status of individuals with AIS does not provide data on the prevalence of overweight in these patients.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 112 adolescent girls with idiopathic scoliosis and 231 healthy age-matched girls from the same geographic region. Three different validated body mass index (BMI) cutoffs for adolescents were used to define the nutritional status. Adiposity was labeled according to Adiposity & Fat Distribution for Adolescents (AFAD-A) criteria.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in BMI and fat percentage according to age (p < .005) in both AIS patients and healthy controls. The overall prevalence of underweight was similar in both groups (scoliotic girls, 4.5%; controls, 4.8%). Obesity was more prevalent in AIS patients than in healthy controls. The World Health Organization-2007 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cutoffs detected similar percentages of AIS girls with obesity (10.7%) and healthy controls (5.4%). The International Obesity Taskforce detected a 6.3% of AIS girls with obesity and only 3.0% in controls. Fat-age distribution gradually decreases from 11-13 to 16-17 years in AIS patients (p < .05). The overall prevalence of adolescents with fat overload (body fat index [BFI] >7.6) was similar in both groups (AIS, 0.9%; controls, 0.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of adolescents with obesity was twofold higher among AIS girls than in age-matched healthy controls. However, in AIS girls, the BFI differed from that shown by healthy peers, being lower along the middle adolescence period (13-15 years). AIS girls showed an important increase in underweight at late adolescence (16-17 years).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, diagnostic.

Radiation in Spine Deformity: State-of-the-Art Reviews

STUDY DESIGN/METHODS

Review article.

OBJECTIVES

This article will provide an overview regarding measurement of radiation exposure and effects on patients with spinal deformity.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA/RESULTS

Pediatric and adult spinal deformity patients are frequently exposed to diagnostic studies exposing them to ionizing radiation. There is a concern that medical radiation can result in increased cancer risk, particularly in children who will live for a long period of time in which cancer may develop and who have rapidly dividing cells that may be more susceptible to DNA damage. CT imaging imparts 10-100 times higher radiation dosing than standard radiographs. Usage of CT imaging studies is growing in the United States and represents 50% of medical imaging exposure. In addition to the 3 millisieverts (mSv) mean natural background exposure, in the United States, the average American experiences an additional 3 mSv of exposure primarily due to medical diagnostic imaging. Early-onset scoliosis patients are at risk of high cumulative radiation exposure given the young age at diagnosis and frequency of multiorgan system involvement in the case of neuromuscular, congenital, and syndromic patients. Biplanar slot scanning reduces patient radiation exposure, and overall levels of exposure from radiographic imaging is quite low compared with CT imaging or historic radiographs. Specialized pediatric CT dosing protocols result in lower patient absorbed dose. Surgeon and team intraoperative exposure to radiation should always be a concern. Appropriate shielding with a lead apron and minimizing radiation exposure are appropriate strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

This article will help guide surgeons to make appropriate decisions regarding the need for imaging studies and advocate for low-dose imaging protocols within their facilities.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V.

Screening of scoliosis in school children in Tehran: The prevalence rate of idiopathic scoliosis

BACKGROUND

Scoliosis is the abnormal sideways curve of the spine. Screening for scoliosis is controversial, and there has been significant heterogeneity between studies. In Iran, there is still no suitable device to screen sideways curves in spine.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the simple scolioscreen software for screening the students of elementary schools for detecting schoolchildren scoliosis. This students has been examined by trained medical student and data entered in scolioscreen application of an iPhone.

METHODS

One hundred forty-four 7-12 years old students from primary schools in the 17th district of Tehran were randomly invited to participate. Initial screening of the students was done in schools by health care provider or medical student who has been trained by a pediatrician to undergo a vertebral examination. Scoliometer for iPhone's smartphone has been used for measuring the angle of deviation.

RESULTS

1.4% of students had overt scoliosis and 10.4% were suspected to have a kind of mild abnormality in spine curve. These individuals were referred to clinic for radiologic evaluation and it was confirmed that relative frequency of this abnormality was defined as 4.86% in our population study. There was no significant correlation between sex and degree of spinal curve.

CONCLUSIONS

Regarding the high rate of scoliosis in our population and approval of this screening test in different studies, routine use of this screening method is highly recommended in schoolchildren. It is cost beneficial and can be effective in prevention and early treatment of scoliosis.

Correlation Between Hump Dimensions and Curve Severity in Idiopathic Scoliosis Before and After Conservative Treatment

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective study in 150 consecutive outpatients affected by adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

OBJECTIVES

The purposes were to (1) identify a correlation between hump dimensions and the severity of scoliotic curve, and (2) evaluate how the treatment influenced the main parameters of scoliosis.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The existence of a relationship between clinical deformities and curve severity in AIS is still debated. Furthemore, only a few studies have investigated the effectiveness of conservative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis taking into account both clinical and radiologic factors.

METHODS

150 consecutive outpatients (mean age 12.8 ± 1.9 years) affected by AIS were subjected to conservative brace-based treatment. 134 participants completed the treatment protocol. Two parameters were considered to evaluate the treatment progress: the hump and the Cobb angle. Measurements were determined at the beginning and the end of treatment. Statistical analyses were performed in the whole sample and after dividing the study participants into 4 subgroups: patients with lumbar (n = 66) or thoracic curves (n = 68), patients ranging in age between 6 and 13 years (n = 89) and patients ≥ 14 years of age (n = 45).

RESULTS

A positive correlation was detected between the hump dimension and curve severity at the beginning and the end of treatment, except for lumbar curves at baseline. The deformity was effectively corrected by the orthotic treatment (Cobb angle: 29.4 ± 8.5° at baseline and 19.3 ± 9.8° at the end of treatment; hump severity: 11.6 ± 5.6 mm at baseline and 6.2 ± 4.6 mm at the end). In addition, our data indicate that the hump correction is more evident than that of the curve registered in Cobb degrees.

CONCLUSION

A significant correlation exists between the hump dimension and curve severity both at the beginning and the end of treatment, except for lumbar curves at baseline. The brace treatment confirmed its effectiveness in arresting the deformity progression and inducing a remodeling both of the scoliotic curve and the hump.

2016 SOSORT guidelines: orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth

BACKGROUND

The International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) produced its first guidelines in 2005 and renewed them in 2011. Recently published high-quality clinical trials on the effect of conservative treatment approaches (braces and exercises) for idiopathic scoliosis prompted us to update the last guidelines' version. The objective was to align the guidelines with the new scientific evidence to assure faster knowledge transfer into clinical practice of conservative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis (CTIS).

METHODS

Physicians, researchers and allied health practitioners working in the area of CTIS were involved in the development of the 2016 guidelines. Multiple literature reviews reviewing the evidence on CTIS (assessment, bracing, physiotherapy, physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) and other CTIS) were conducted. Documents, recommendations and practical approach flow charts were developed using a Delphi procedure. The process was completed with the Consensus Session held during the first combined SOSORT/IRSSD Meeting held in Banff, Canada, in May 2016.

RESULTS

The contents of the new 2016 guidelines include the following: background on idiopathic scoliosis, description of CTIS approaches for various populations with flow-charts for clinical practice, as well as literature reviews and recommendations on assessment, bracing, PSSE and other CTIS. The present guidelines include a total of 68 recommendations divided into following topics: bracing (n = 25), PSSE to prevent scoliosis progression during growth (n = 12), PSSE during brace treatment and surgical therapy (n = 6), other conservative treatments (n = 2), respiratory function and exercises (n = 3), general sport activities (n = 6); and assessment (n = 14). According to the agreed strength and level of evidence rating scale, there were 2 recommendations on bracing and 1 recommendation on PSSE that reached level of recommendation "I" and level of evidence "II". Three recommendations reached strength of recommendation A based on the level of evidence I (2 for bracing and one for assessment); 39 recommendations reached strength of recommendation B (20 for bracing, 13 for PSSE, and 6 for assessment).The number of paper for each level of evidence for each treatment is shown in Table 8.

CONCLUSION

The 2016 SOSORT guidelines were developed based on the current evidence on CTIS. Over the last 5 years, high-quality evidence has started to emerge, particularly in the areas of efficacy of bracing (one large multicentre trial) and PSSE (three single-centre randomized controlled trials). Several grade A recommendations were presented. Despite the growing high-quality evidence, the heterogeneity of the study protocols limits generalizability of the recommendations. There is a need for standardization of research methods of conservative treatment effectiveness, as recognized by SOSORT and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) non-operative management Committee.

Goniometric evaluation of the spinal sagittal curves in children and adolescents: A reliability study

BACKGROUND

Gold standard for spine deformities assessment is X rays, but the procedure bears a risk of exposure.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of a pocket compass needle goniometer (IncliMed®, University of Padua) to non-invasively evaluate spine curves in children and adolescents.

METHODS

Prospective reliability study in a paediatric population (mean age 12.5 years ± 2.5). Children with spine deformities (Scheuermann's or postural kyphosis, idiopathic scoliosis) and healthy controls were included. Two physician measured spinal curves with the surface goniometer IncliMed® within a temporal range of 10 minutes. Participants were re-tested after a mean of 28 days for the intra-rater study. Agreement limit and coefficient of repeatability were calculated according to the linear regression analysis; the Bland and Altman method was applied to obtain average of differences and standard error of the mean of the differences.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-nine subjects participated to the inter-rater reliability assessment; 30 to the intra-rater reliability assessment. Inter-observer variability for IncliMed® measurements was ± 11° both for kyphosis and for lordosis. The intra-observer variability for kyphosis and lordosis measurements was ± 11° and ± 12°.

CONCLUSIONS

IncliMed® is a reliable, non-invasive tool to screen and monitor spinal curves in paediatric populations.

Idiopathic scoliosis: Static analysis of the influence of shim use on postural angles

Abstract Introduction: Scoliosis is characterized as a three-dimensional deformity. In this scenario, the use of shims can promote correction of postural imbalances. Objective: To verify the static changes associated with unilateral manipulation of shims in idiopathic scoliosis. Methods: Two experimental groups composed of participants with scoliosis with double and single curves, and a control group of participants without scoliosis. 10 reflective markers were used, filmed for 15 seconds in the static position in three conditions (no shim; low shim of 1 cm, and high shim of 3 cm) on the right and left foot. The following postural angles were calculated: alpha 1, alpha 2, alpha 3, and alpha 4. Results: There were differences in the shim condition between the control group (CG) and experimental scoliosis with “S” (GES) for alpha 2 and 4 and Scoliosis “C” (GEC) for alpha 2. For shims under the right foot, there were differences between the control group and GES for alpha 4 and the GEC for alpha 1, 2 and 4, and between shims for the GES for alpha 3 and 4. Shims under the left foot were responsible for significant differences between the control group and the GES and GEC groups. Conclusion: These static postural changes indicate that scoliosis curves show adaptability and postural reorganization in response to manipulation with shims, and the greatest influence is seen in the lower segments, both in simple and double curves. According to the results it is concluded that residual scoliotic curvatures have flexibility that allows postural adjustment with shims.

Influence of side-shift therapy associated or not with a shoe lift on idiopathic scoliosis

Abstract Introduction: The benefits of side-shift therapy associated with a shoe lift in scoliosis can act by reorganizing the asymmetries found in these individuals. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of side-shift therapy with or without a high or low shoe lift in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Materials and Methods: 10 individuals of both genders, aged 13-24 years, were selected, with scoliosis "S" and right thoracic and left lumbar greater than 10º. Initially the order of the task was static and then dynamic, after which there was a draw for the conditions with the shoe lift. The values of postural angles during the five lateral tilt movements were obtained and also the minimum and maximum values of each movement. The average value of postural angle in the static position, without a shoe lift, was used as a reference. Results: The movement associated with the shoe lift demonstrated less significant results compared with the effect of the static shoe lift and the side-shift movements performed in isolation, no significant results in any angle were found. Discussion: Both movements, to the side of the convexity or to the opposite side, seemed to decrease the effect of the shoe lift. The side-shift movement performed in isolation failed to influence the postural angles in general, demonstrating that acute intervention may not be efficient. Conclusion: The influence of side-shift therapy associated with a high or low shoe lift on both sides was effective, but the shoe lift in the static position produced the most significant changes and therefore is considered a better intervention in order to prevent the progression of double curve in patients with idiopathic scoliosis.

Orthopedic Manifestations of Mobius Syndrome: Case Series and Survey Study

Background. Mobius Syndrome is a rare disease defined by bilateral congenital 7th nerve palsy. We focus on reporting the prevalence of orthopedic disease in this population. Methods. Twenty-three individuals with Mobius Syndrome underwent orthopedic physical examination, and additional 96 patients filled out a survey for self-reported orthopedic diagnoses. Results. Clubfoot was present in 60% of individuals in the physical exam series and 42% of those in the survey. Scoliosis was present in 26% and 28%, respectively. Poland's Syndrome was present in 17% and 30%. In addition to these findings, 27% of patients reported having difficulty with anesthesia, including difficulty in intubation and airway problems. Conclusion. An increased prevalence of scoliosis, clubfoot, transverse limb deficiencies, and Poland's Syndrome is identified in the setting of Mobius Syndrome. In the setting of several deformities often requiring surgical correction, a high incidence of anesthetic difficulty is noted and should be discussed with patients and other providers during surgical planning.

Prevalence of Idiopathic Scoliosis in Chinese Schoolchildren: A Large, Population-Based Study

STUDY DESIGN

This is a population-based, cross-sectional study of school scoliosis screening program in mainland China.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess current prevalence and distribution of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) in schoolchildren and to compare with the results of previous studies.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The feasibility and predictive values of scoliosis screening programs for school-age children remains controversial and many of these programs have recently been discontinued in different countries. Due to different race and medical model in China, it is not feasible to introduce these data without further study. Therefore, a reliable retrospective cohort study with a large sample size to ensure proper evaluation of school scoliosis screening is needed.

METHODS

Schoolchildren were initially screened by visual inspection of clinical signs, the forward-bending test, and the measurement of the angle of trunk rotation (ATR). Students suspected were rescreened, and then were referred for radiography or dismissed. The diagnosis and treatment were based on the Cobb angle. The personal information, demographic information, and results of tests performed were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 99,695 children were screened, with a female-to-male ratio of 1:1.03. Around 6.56% of children screened were referred for radiography, and 5125 of them had confirmed diagnosis. The overall scoliosis prevalence rate was 5.14%. According to age and gender, 14- to 15-year-old girls had the highest prevalence rates (13.81%). And, the prevalence of IS in need of treatment was 0.64%. A prevalence rate of 13.1% was observed in girls with BMI less than 18 kg/m².

CONCLUSION

The prevalence rate of IS was 5.14% in our study. Screening of 13- to 14- and 14- to 15-year-old girls identified a significant number who could benefit from preventive treatment. Low BMI may be a risk factor for IS. We present this study as a guide for studying the prevalence of IS and modifying our further research.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

To screen or not to screen for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? A review of the literature

OBJECTIVES

Over the years, there has been much debate about the desirability and efficacy of screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. To analyse the current evidence from a public health point of view a renewed evaluation of the literature was performed.

STUDY DESIGN

Literature review.

METHODS

We performed two literature searches: from January 2000 to April 2015 for systematic reviews or guidelines on screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and from January 2009 to April 2015 for all studies on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and screening methods. We evaluated if screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis fulfils the criteria of the UK National Screenings Committee for appraising a screening programme.

RESULTS

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a condition with an unpredictable natural history. The optimal age and frequency of screening are unknown; it is not possible to predict which patients will need (conservative or surgical) treatment. The Forward Bending Test has a positive predictive value of 2.6% and a sensitivity of 56% (95% CI 23-88%) for (conservative or surgical) treatment, and is therefore not valid enough for use in a screening programme. There seems to be sufficient evidence that brace treatment is effective for preventing progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. It is not clear if screening is cost effective.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite evidence that brace treatment is effective for preventing progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the benefits from the screening programme do not outweigh the harms. From a Public Health point of view, there is not enough evidence to support a screening programme for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Association between joint hypermobility, scoliosis, and cranial base anomalies in paediatric Osteogenesis imperfecta patients: a retrospective cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Joint hypermobility is a common clinical characteristic of patients with Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), a disorder with serious comorbidities of scoliosis and cranial base anomalies. This study aimed at evaluating how prevalent joint hypermobility is in paediatric OI patients, and to find out whether it serves as a potential predictive marker of the different spinal complications; scoliosis and craniovertebral anomalies (basilar impression and basilar invagination).

METHODS

In this cross-sectional one-center study we analysed retrospectively clinical patient records and radiographs of 47 OI patients, aged 1-19 years, some of whom were treated with bisphosphonates. Presence of joint hypermobility, scoliosis, and craniovertebral anomalies was recorded and possible connections between the phenomena were explored with correlation analysis.

RESULTS

Joint hypermobility was found in 70% of the patients. Scoliosis and cranial base anomalies had developed in 26%. The presence of spinal complications was independent of the bisphosphonate treatment status and joint hypermobility.

CONCLUSIONS

Scoliosis and craniovertebral anomalies are strongly associated in paediatric OI patients. Joint hypermobility that is much more common appears, however, to be a poor predictor.

Change of range of motion of the temporomandibular joint after correction of mild scoliosis

[Purpose] This study aimed to verify the change in range of motion of the temporomandibular joint on correction of scoliosis. [Subjects and Methods] This study examined 31 male and female participants in their 20s and 30s with a spinal curve degree of 10° or greater. The subjects performed therapeutic exercise based on the pilates exercise system, which is known to be effective in mitigating the spinal curve for patients with scoliosis. All participants completed an 8-week therapeutic exercise regimen to alleviate the scoliosis in which exercise was performed, the exercise was done three times a week for 8 weeks and each session lasted 60 minutes. Among them, 19 participants were selected as an experiment group, whose symptoms were mitigated significantly, and 12 participants who did not undergo the exercise were identified as a control group. All subject was assessed for spinal curve degree, apparent leg length discrepancy, and deviation and range of motion of the temporomandibular joint before and after the study. [Results] In the experimental group, the apparent leg length discrepancy and the deviation of the temporomandibular joint were significantly decreased after the exercise, and the ROM in the temporomandibular joint was significantly increased. In intergroup comparisons, all variables showed a significant difference. [Conclusion] The findings suggest that as the spinal curve degree decreases significantly, the range of motion and deviation in the temporomandibular joint showed a significant change, indicating that mild scoliosis may be a negative factor affecting the deviation and range of motion of the temporomandibular joint.

2011 SOSORT guidelines: Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth

BACKGROUND

The International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), that produced its first Guidelines in 2005, felt the need to revise them and increase their scientific quality. The aim is to offer to all professionals and their patients an evidence-based updated review of the actual evidence on conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis (CTIS).

METHODS

All types of professionals (specialty physicians, and allied health professionals) engaged in CTIS have been involved together with a methodologist and a patient representative. A review of all the relevant literature and of the existing Guidelines have been performed. Documents, recommendations, and practical approach flow charts have been developed according to a Delphi procedure. A methodological and practical review has been made, and a final Consensus Session was held during the 2011 Barcelona SOSORT Meeting.

RESULTS

The contents of the document are: methodology; generalities on idiopathic scoliosis; approach to CTIS in different patients, with practical flow-charts; literature review and recommendations on assessment, bracing, physiotherapy, Physiotherapeutic Specific Exercises (PSE) and other CTIS. Sixty-five recommendations have been given, divided in the following topics: Bracing (20 recommendations), PSE to prevent scoliosis progression during growth (8), PSE during brace treatment and surgical therapy (5), Other conservative treatments (3), Respiratory function and exercises (3), Sports activities (6), Assessment (20). No recommendations reached a Strength of Evidence level I; 2 were level II; 7 level III; and 20 level IV; through the Consensus procedure 26 reached level V and 10 level VI. The Strength of Recommendations was Grade A for 13, B for 49 and C for 3; none had grade D.

CONCLUSION

These Guidelines have been a big effort of SOSORT to paint the actual situation of CTIS, starting from the evidence, and filling all the gray areas using a scientific method. According to results, it is possible to understand the lack of research in general on CTIS. SOSORT invites researchers to join, and clinicians to develop good research strategies to allow in the future to support or refute these recommendations according to new and stronger evidence.

School screening and point prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in 4000 Norwegian children aged 12 years

BACKGROUND

School screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is discussed. The aim of the present study was to describe the point prevalence of AIS and to evaluate the effectiveness of school screening in 12-year- old children.

METHODS

Community nurses and physical therapists in the Southern Health region of Norway including about 12000 school children aged 12 years were invited to participate. All participating community nurses and physical therapists fulfilled an educational course to improve their knowledge about AIS and learn the screening procedure including the Adam Forward Bending Test and measurement of gibbus using a scoliometer.

RESULTS

Sub-regions including 4000 school children participated. The prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis defined as a positive Adam Forward Bending Test, gibbus > 7° and primary major curve on radiographs > 10°, was 0.55%. Five children (0.13%) had a major curve > 20°. Bracing was not indicated in any child; all children were post menarche; four had Risser sign of 4, and one with Risser 1 did not have curve progression > 5° at later follow-up. In one of these 5 children however, the major curve progressed to 45° within 7 months after screening and the girl was operated.

CONCLUSION

The point prevalence of AIS in 12- year old children is in agreement or slightly lower than previous studies. The screening model employed demonstrates acceptable sensitivity and specificity and low referral rates. Screening at the age of 12 years only was not effective for detecting patients with indication for brace treatment.

Early onset scoliosis: what the primary care provider needs to know and implications for practice

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to discuss the role of the primary care provider in the detection of and referral for early onset scoliosis. An overview of scoliosis including etiology, natural history, guidelines for physical examination, current practice for scoliosis screening, and available treatments will be discussed.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, OVID Medline, Psychinfo. Search terms: juvenile scoliosis, childhood onset scoliosis, early onset scoliosis, idiopathic scoliosis, and infantile scoliosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Scoliosis is classified depending on the magnitude, location, direction, and cause of the curve, and can lead to a variety of health effects if not treated. The greater the scoliosis curve and the earlier it presents, the more likely it may affect thoracic growth, inhibit cardiopulmonary function, and cause psychosocial distress.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Routine scoliosis screening should be incorporated into each healthcare maintenance visit beginning in infancy and continue into adolescence until the child reaches skeletal maturity. Curves with a scoliometer reading greater than 5° should be referred, and conservative treatment should be considered for curves that surpass 20°. If scoliosis is detected early, it may be possible to stabilize the curve from progressing and even prevent thoracic deformity and secondary complications from occurring.

Idiopathic scoliosis in Korean schoolchildren: a prospective screening study of over 1 million children

Cross-sectional epidemiologic scoliosis screening was carried out to determine the current prevalence of scoliosis in the Korean population and to compare with the results of previous studies. Between 2000 and 2008, 1,134,890 schoolchildren underwent scoliosis screening. The children were divided into two age groups, 10-12-year-olds (elementary school) and 13-14-year-olds (middle school), to calculate age- and sex-specific prevalence rates. Children with a scoliometer reading ≥5° were referred for radiograms. Two surgeons independently measured curve types, magnitudes, and Risser scores (inter-observer r = 0.964, intra-observer r = 0.978). Yearly and overall prevalence rates of scoliosis were calculated. There were 584,554 boys and 550,336 girls in the sample, with a male to female ratio of 1.1:1. There were 77,910 (6.2%) children (26,824 boys and 51,086 girls) with scoliometer readings >5°, and 37,339 of them had positive results with Cobb angles ≥10° (positive predictive value, 46.4%). The overall scoliosis prevalence rate was 3.26%; girls had a higher prevalence (4.65%) than boys (1.97%). Prevalence rates increased progressively from 1.66 to 6.17% between 2000 and 2008, with the exception of 2002. According to age and gender, 10-12-year-old girls had the highest scoliosis prevalence rates (5.57%), followed by 13-14-year-old girls (3.90%), 10-12-year-old boys (2.37%), and 13-14-year-old boys (1.42%). In girls and boys, prevalence rates dropped by 64.53 and 60.65% among 10-12-year-olds and 13-14-year-olds, respectively (P = 0.00). The proportion of 10°-19° curves was 95.25 and 84.45% in boys and girls, respectively; and the proportion of 20°-29° curves was 3.91 and 11.28%, which was a significant difference (P = 0.00). Thoracic curves were the most common (47.59%) followed by thoracolumbar/lumbar (40.10%), double (9.09%), and double thoracic (3.22%) curves. A comparison of the curve patterns revealed significant differences between genders (P = 0.00). We present this report as a guide for studying the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in a large population, and the increasing trend in the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis emphasizes the need for awareness.

Referral criteria for school scoliosis screening: assessment and recommendations based on a large longitudinally followed cohort

STUDY DESIGN

This study was a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the criteria recommended in the literature for the school-based scoliosis screening program in Hong Kong.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

School-based screening for scoliosis has been a controversy. Objectors to the policy were concerned about the high over-referral and false-positive rates. Recommendations were then made for improvement, but the feasibility of these recommendations has not been studied.

METHODS

The cohort consisted of students in Grade 5 in 1995/1996 or 1996/1997 who underwent scoliosis screening in Hong Kong. Participants who had an angle of trunk rotation (ATR) ≥15°, 2 or more moiré lines, or presented significant clinical signs were referred for radiography. Screening histories and radiography records before the age of 19 years were extracted. The accuracy measures for different combinations of screening tests were examined.

RESULTS

There were 115,178 students in the cohort, of which 3228 (2.8%) were referred for radiography. Among the 1406 students who displayed a curve ≥20° during screening, 257 (18.3%) were boys and 336 (23.9%) were identified as 16 years or older, ruling out the suggestion of screening only 10-year-old girls. The sensitivity and positive predictive value for the current referral criteria were 88.1% and 43.6%, respectively. The sensitivity would drop substantially if the use of moiré topography (39.8%) or clinical signs (55.5%) were discarded. With the inclusion of these 2 tests, the clinical effectiveness measures were robust to the cutoff for ATR, unless it was set below 10°.

CONCLUSION

Selectively screening only premenarche girls was not feasible, as this screen would have missed a significant proportion of children with significant curvature. No refinement of the current protocol was necessary, although boys could be screened beginning at 12 years of age. The tandem use of ATR, moiré topography, and clinical signs was recommended for future studies.

Association of Chiari malformation type I and tethered cord syndrome: preliminary results of sectioning filum terminale

OBJECTIVE

The pathogenesis of CM-I is incompletely understood. We describe an association of CM-I and TCS that occurs in a subset of patients with normal size of the PCF.

METHODS

The prevalence of TCS was determined in a consecutively accrued cohort of 2987 patients with CM-I and 289 patients with low-lying cerebellar tonsils (LLCT). Findings in 74 children and 244 adults undergoing SFT were reviewed retrospectively. Posterior cranial fossa size and volume were measured using reconstructed 2D computed tomographic scans and MR images. Results were compared to those in 155 age- and sex-matched healthy control individuals and 280 patients with generic CM-I. The relationships of neural and osseus structures at the CCJ and TLJ were investigated morphometrically on MR images. Intraoperative CDU was used to measure anatomical structures and CSF flow in the lumbar theca.

RESULTS

Tethered cord syndrome was present in 408 patients with CM-I (14%) and 182 patients with LLCT (63%). In 318 patients undergoing SFT, there were no significant differences in the size or volume of the PCF as compared to healthy control individuals. Morphometric measurements demonstrated elongation of the brain stem (mean, 8.3 mm; P < .001), downward displacement of the medulla (mean, 4.6 mm; P < .001), and normal position of the CMD except in very young patients. Compared to patients with generic CM-I, the FM was significantly enlarged (P < .001). The FT was typically thin and taut (mean transverse diameter, 0.8 mm). After SFT, the cut ends of the FT distracted widely (mean, 41.7 mm) and CSF flow in the lumbar theca increased from a mean of 0.7 cm/s to a mean of 3.7 cm/s (P < .001). Symptoms were improved or resolved in 69 children (93%) and 203 adults (83%) and unchanged in 5 children (7%) and 39 adults (16%) and, worse, in 2 adults (1%) over a follow-up period of 6 to 27 months (mean, 16.1 months +/- 4.6 SD). Magnetic resonance imaging 1 to 18 months after surgery (mean, 5.7 months +/- 3.8 SD) revealed upward migration of the CMD (mean, 5.1 mm, P < .001), ascent of the cerebellar tonsils (mean, 3.8 mm, P < .001), reduction of brain stem length (mean, 3.9 mm, P < .001), and improvement of scoliosis or syringomyelia in some cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Chiari malformation type I/TCS appears to be a unique clinical entity that occurs as a continuum with LLCT/TCS and is distinguished from generic CM-I by enlargement of the FM and the absence of a small PCF. Distinctive features include elongation and downward displacement of the hindbrain, normal position of the CMD, tight FT, and reduced CSF flow in the lumbar theca. There is preliminary evidence that SFT can reverse moderate degrees of tonsillar ectopia and is appropriate treatment for cerebellar ptosis after Chiari surgery in this cohort.

NONINVASIVE MEASUREMENT AND SCREENING TECHNIQUES FOR SPINAL DEFORMITIES

OBJECTIVE

Spinal deformities are caused by a heterogeneous collection of disease processes. The progression of the scoliotic curve can vary depending on the individual patient, as well as the curve etiology. Noninvasive measurement techniques have been developed to obtain a baseline in addition to record curve progression.

METHODS

We designed our study based on a comprehensive literature review and clinical experience. A systematic review of Medline for articles related to spinal deformities (scoliosis) and screening techniques was conducted up to and including those journal articles published in March 2007.

RESULTS

There are numerous noninvasive modalities available to assess curve progression.

CONCLUSION

The use of a detailed physical examination, serial examinations, and radiographic means serve well to document curve presence and monitor progression.

What a school screening program could contribute in clinical research of idiopathic scoliosis aetiology

PURPOSE

Scoliosis school screening (SSS) programs have clinically benefited many children through early detection and treatment, as it is clearly stated in the Consensus Paper which has been published by the Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT). It is also through these SSS programs that almost all of our current knowledge on the natural history and curve progression of IS has been made known. The present study summarizes the contribution of SSS in research of IS aetiology.

METHOD

We reviewed all the reports in relation to research of IS aetiology, which were published in peer-review journals and were originated from the Thriasio SSS program.

RESULTS

Analysis comprises of reports for (i) IS prevalence, (ii) aetiological studies originated from school screening referrals which implicate numerous environmental and biological factors in IS pathogenesis, (iii) suggestions for a more efficient screening, (iv) IS natural history, and (v) the evolving aim of SSS based on the reported research.

CONCLUSIONS

SSS should be adopted by policy makers, because its scope goes beyond the identification of IS at an early stage, contributing significantly into the research for IS aetiology.

Idiopathic scoliosis and pineal lesions in Australian children

PURPOSE

To determine whether treatment of pineal lesions in children is associated with development of idiopathic scoliosis.

METHODS

38 boys and 10 girls with pineal lesions were identified. Their mean age at presentation was 10 years. The pineal pathology varied from cysts and epidermoid to teratoma, germinoma, pineocytoma, and glioblastoma. Treatment ranged from biopsy/extirpation to radiotherapy.

RESULTS

12 patients died. No scoliosis was found in any females or any of the deceased. Two boys had scoliosis: one had a 12-degree right upper thoracic curve with 32-degree kyphosis and the other had a 60-degree right thoracolumbar idiopathic curve, requiring a 2-stage arthrodesis.

CONCLUSION

Pineal ablation is not related to the development of idiopathic scoliosis in humans.

Association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis prevalence and age at menarche in different geographic latitudes

BACKGROUND

Age at menarche is considered a reliable prognostic factor for idiopathic scoliosis and varies in different geographic latitudes. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis prevalence has also been reported to be different in various latitudes and demonstrates higher values in northern countries. A study on epidemiological reports from the literature was conducted to investigate a possible association between prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and age at menarche among normal girls in various geographic latitudes. An attempt is also made to implicate a possible role of melatonin in the above association.

MATERIAL-METHODS

20 peer-reviewed published papers reporting adolescent idiopathic scoliosis prevalence and 33 peer-reviewed papers reporting age at menarche in normal girls from most geographic areas of the northern hemisphere were retrieved from the literature. The geographic latitude of each centre where a particular study was originated was documented. The statistical analysis included regression of the adolescent idiopathic scoliosis prevalence and age at menarche by latitude.

RESULTS

The regression of prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and age at menarche by latitude is statistically significant (p < 0.001) and are following a parallel declining course of their regression curves, especially in latitudes northern than 25 degrees.

CONCLUSION

Late age at menarche is parallel with higher prevalence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Pubarche appears later in girls that live in northern latitudes and thus prolongs the period of spine vulnerability while other pre-existing or aetiological factors are contributing to the development of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. A possible role of geography in the pathogenesis of idiopathic scoliosis is discussed, as it appears that latitude which differentiates the sunlight influences melatonin secretion and modifies age at menarche, which is associated to the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis.

Selective screening for scoliosis

Scoliosis screening has been practiced for nearly 50 years and has provided valuable knowledge about the prevalence and natural history of scoliosis. Early diagnosis allows for nonoperative treatment, like wearing an orthosis that has been shown to be effective by numerous outcome studies. Challenges in scoliosis screening include the low prevalence rate of clinically significant scoliosis, the inverse relationship of sensitivity and specificity in the screening process because of the poor correlation of clinical deformity and radiographic abnormality, and the inflated cost of these programs because of overreferral. Recommendations for improvement include redefinition of what actually constitutes a "significant" scoliosis for screening, diagnostic, and outcome purposes; selective screening of only immature females; the use of objective referral criteria; and re-screening patients rather than referring those who have borderline cases.

The relation of joint laxity and trunk rotation

A study was designed to evaluate the joint laxity during scoliosis screening, and to show if there is a relation of joint laxity values to the trunk rotation. One thousand, two hundred and seventy-three children (598 females, 675 males) with an average age of 10.4 years were screened with a scoliometer and forward bending for trunk rotations. Scapular and shoulder elevations, flexible pes planus were recorded and joint laxity was evaluated with the Beighton score. There was high inter-observer and intra-observer reliability for both scoliometer and Beighton scores. In 41 children (3.2%) with Beighton score 7 or higher, trunk rotation measurements were higher than for the rest of the children. Trunk rotation measurements of 7 degrees or higher were found in 30 children, who were more lax than the rest of the group and were invited for radiography, with a detection of curves between 11 and 18 degrees in 10 of them. The Beighton score is a practical and reliable method for defining joint laxity. Although the number of patients with scoliosis was limited, there are findings supporting the relation between joint laxity and scoliosis. Moreover, there was increased laxity in children with increased trunk rotations. Ligamentous laxity may be one of the causes changing the contour of the back.

Indices of torso asymmetry related to spinal deformity in scoliosis

OBJECTIVE

To develop indices that quantify 360 degrees torso surface asymmetry sufficiently well to estimate the Cobb angle of scoliotic spinal deformity within the clinically important 5-10 degrees range.

DESIGN

Prospective study in 48 consecutive adolescent scoliosis patients (Cobb angles 10-71 degrees ).

BACKGROUND

Scoliotic surface asymmetry has been quantified on the back surface by indices such as back surface rotation (BSR) and curvature of the spinous process line and torso centroid line, though with limited success in spinal deformity estimation. Quantification of 360 degrees torso shape may enhance surface-spine correlation and permit reduced use of harmful X-rays in scoliosis.

METHODS

For each patient a 3D torso surface model was generated concurrently with postero-anterior X-rays. We computed indices describing principal axis orientation, back surface rotation, and asymmetry of the torso centroid line, left and right half-areas and the spinous process line. We calculated correlations of each index to the Cobb angle and used stepwise regression to estimate the Cobb angle.

RESULTS

Several torso asymmetry indices correlated well to the Cobb angle (r up to 0.8). The Cobb angle was best estimated by age, rib hump and left-right variation in torso width in unbraced patients and by centroid lateral deviation in braced patients. A regression model estimated the Cobb angle from torso indices within 5 degrees in 65% of patients and 10 degrees in 88% (r=0.91, standard error=6.1 degrees ).

CONCLUSION

Consideration of 360 degrees torso surface data yielded indices that correlated well to the Cobb angle and estimated the Cobb angle within 10 degrees in 88% of cases.

RELEVANCE

The torso asymmetry indices developed here show a strong surface-spine relation in scoliosis, encouraging development of a model to detect scoliosis magnitude and progression from the surface shape with minimal X-ray radiation.

Ten-year follow-up evaluation of a school screening program for scoliosis. Is the forward-bending test an accurate diagnostic criterion for the screening of scoliosis?

STUDY DESIGN

A 10-year follow-up evaluation of the effectiveness of school screening for scoliosis performed in a closed island population.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of methods used for screening scoliosis and to re-examine the long-term effectiveness of the school scoliosis screening program.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The diagnostic accuracy of the forward-bending test and the long-term efficacy of the screening programs have not been clearly established.

METHODS

In 1987, 2700 pupils aged 8 to 16 years from the island of Samos were screened for scoliosis. The Adams forward-bending test, Moire topography, the scoliometer, and the humpometer were used. Radiologic evaluation of the spine was available for each pupil and the number of false-negative and false-positive results of the screening methods was calculated. Subsequently, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were estimated for each screening technique. Pupils found positive for spinal deformity were then followed up regularly at yearly intervals. In 1997, all positive subjects attended a 10-year clinical and radiologic follow-up, and the remaining subjects were re-evaluated by a postal questionnaire and were clinically examined if necessary.

RESULTS

Spinal deformity was found in 153 (5.66%) pupils. Scoliosis (defined as a spinal curvature > or = 10 degrees) was found in 32 pupils, for a prevalence of 1.18%. For scoliosis, the Adams forward-bending test showed a number of false-negative results (in five cases), for a sensitivity of 84.37% and specificity of 93.44%. The sensitivities of Moire topography, the humpometer, and the scoliometer were 100%, 93.75%, and 90.62%, respectively, and specificity was 85.38%, 78.11%, and 79.76% respectively. The negative predictive value of the forward-bending test was inferior to those of the other methods. During this scoliosis screening program, if cutoff limits for referral had been used, such as the asymmetry of two Moire fringes, a humpogram deformity of (D + H) = 10 mm, and 8 degrees of scoliometer angle, it would have been possible to reduce radiologic examination by 89.4%. Three (0.11%) pupils aged between 12 and 14 years with scoliotic deformities greater than 20 degrees underwent satisfactory nonoperative treatment with Boston braces. One pupil with a 40 degrees thoracic curvature, underwent satisfactory surgical treatment because of progression 1 year later. Of the 121 spinal deformities with an initial Cobb angle less than 10 degrees, 44 (35.8%), and of the 29 scoliotic deformities with an initial Cobb angle between 10 degrees and 20 degrees, 14 (48.3%) progressed (a Cobb angle difference of at least 5 degrees in more than one examination). Observation and physiotherapy were the only treatments applied to all except one of the pupils in these groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The Adams forward-bending test cannot be considered a safe diagnostic criterion for the early detection of scoliosis (especially when it is used as the only screening tool) because it results in an unacceptable number of false-negative findings. For the early detection of scoliosis, a combination of back-shape analysis methods can be safely used with the introduction of cutoff limits for referral being a useful procedure. The incidence of significant scoliosis is low, and its natural history seems to be independent of early detection. The wide-spread use of school scoliosis screening with the use of the forward-bending test must be questioned.