Curvatures above 10 degrees on anterior-posterior direct graphy are called scoliosis.
Figure 1. 3D computed tomography image of the patient with idiopathic scoliosis.
Figure 2. Measurement of the scoliosis angle in the anterior-posterior radiograph of the patient with idiopathic scoliosis
What is the Natural Course?
There are basic factors that determine whether the curvature will increase in scoliosis patients. The patient’s age, gender, puberty, location and degree of curvature determine whether the curvature will increase. The probability of progression of the curvature is higher in girls. Severe curves, thoracic curves, and double curves tend to progress with a higher probability.
How Is Idiopathic Scoliosis Treated?
• Exercise
It has been reported that with the scientific rehabilitation programs applied to the patients followed up with the diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis, the progression of scoliosis decreased and in some cases the degree of curvature decreased.
• Which Patients Should Use a Corset?
One of the goals of treatment in patients with idiopathic scoliosis is to slow the progression of the curvature as much as possible until the patient completes adolescence. The corsets used for this purpose are designed in accordance with the patient’s body. It would be appropriate to use a corset in patients whose curvature is 20-40 degrees and maturity is not completed. Milwaukee, Wilmington, Spine-Cor and Boston type braces can be used in patients with idiopathic scoliosis.
• Which Patients Need Surgery?
Surgical treatment should be considered in patients with a curve greater than 50 degrees.
How is Surgical Treatment Planning Made in Patients with Idopathic Scoliosis?
Surgical planning should be done in accordance with the location, type and degree of the curvature. Which vertebrae of the patient will be included in the correction and which will be released are evaluated according to the anteroposterior and lateral scoliosis radiographs taken before the surgery, as well as the lateral bending radiographs.
