Risser Score Research Articles

Puberty changes the natural history of idiopathic scoliosis: three prediction models for future radiographic curve severity from 1563 consecutive patients.

Understanding idiopathic scoliosis (IS) natural history during growth is essential for shared decision-making between patients and physicians. We developed a retrospective model with the largest available sample in the literature and we aimed to investigate if using three peri-pubertal growth periods provides better prediction than a unique model. Secondary analysis of a previous study on IS natural history data from radiographs before and at the first consult. Three groups: BEFORE (age 6-10), AT (age 11-Risser 2) and AFTER (from Risser 3) the pubertal growth spurt. Available predictors: Cobb angle, curve type, sex, observation time, and Risser score. We used linear mixed-effects models to predict future Cobb angles in each group. We internally validated prediction accuracy with over 100 patients per group (3 to 5-fold cross-validation). We included 1563 participants (275 BEFORE, 316 AFTER, 782 females and 190 males AT). Curves increased over time mostly in AT, importantly in BEFORE, but also in AFTER. All models performed better than the general one. In BEFORE, 74.2% of the predictions were within ± 5o, 71.8% in AFTER, 68.2% in AT females, and 60.4% in males. The predictors (baseline curve, observation time also squared and cubic, and Risser score) were similar in all the models, with sex influencing only AFTER. IS curve severities increase differently during growth with puberty stages. Model accuracy increases when tailored by growth spurt periods. Our models may help patients and clinicians share decisions, identify the risk of progression and inform treatment planning.

Relationship between inflammatory laboratory parameters and severity of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A pilot study.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a complex condition whose pathogenesis may include inflammation and signs of joint and bone degeneration. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between the severity of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and inflammatory blood parameters. The study recruited patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who attended the Rehabilitation Center of the Apostolo Foundation in Merate (LC). The scoliosis curve (Cobb's angle) was used as a severity index to compare with inflammatory blood parameters (white blood cells subpopulations, immunoglobulins, protein electrophoresis). In addition, the study used an overall severity grading called "Scoliosis Score" which includes all spine angles and Risser's score (bone development index). Thirty-four subjects were recruited (mean age 14years, 2months), 30females and 2males. A significant correlation was found between Cobb's angle and the percentage values of beta-2 globulins in a directly proportional manner (r= 0.42, p= 0.01), and gamma globulins in an inversely proportional manner (r=-0.366, p= 0.04). However, no significant correlation between Cobb's angle and the absolute values of white blood cells and percentage subpopulations was found (r= 0.0821 p= 0.655). A moderate, inverse correlation was found between the Scoliosis Score and the percentage of neutrophils (r=-0.385, p= 0.02), a direct correlation was found between the Scoliosis Score and the percentage of lymphocytes (r= 0.404, p= 0.02). In addition, there was a strong correlation of the Scoliosis Score with alpha-2 globulin (r= 0.564, p= 0.0012), beta-1 globulin (r= 0.478, p= 0.0074), and beta-2 globulin (r= 0.370, p= 0.044) and an inverse relationship with gamma globulin (r=-0.625, p= 0.0002). The main correlations were confirmed by regression analysis. The correlation between beta-2 globulins and gamma globulins with Cobb's angle and the Scoliosis Score suggests a link between spinal curvature and inflammation in scoliosis patients, This link may indicate the significance of these parameters for diagnosing, staging the disease, and monitoring therapies.

The Sanders Classification and Obesity: Do Obese Kids With AIS Present With More Advanced Skeletal Maturity?

Obese and overweight (OOW) patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) have been shown to initially present with a more advanced Risser score compared to normal weight (NW) patients. The Sanders Maturity Scale (SMS) is now more commonly used by surgeons to assist with treatment decisions because it more reliably predicts skeletal maturity. However, the relationship between SMS and obesity has not been described. We hypothesize that in patients with AIS, OOW patients will have a higher SMS score on initial presentation when compared to NW patients. Billing data from 2 different institutions were used to identify patients with AIS presenting to a pediatric orthopaedic spine surgeon for an initial visit between July 2012 and March 2020. We excluded those without height/weight data, spine radiographs, or left-hand radiographs for measuring SMS stage. Body mass index-for-age percentiles were calculated and used to group patients into NW (<85th percentile) or OOW (85th percentile and above) per Centers for Disease Control guidelines. After collecting preliminary data, a power analysis was performed using average SMS scores between NW and OOW patients with an alpha of 0.5, determining a needed sample size of approximately 300 male and 300 female subjects. Five hundred ninety patients (296 female, 294 male) were identified. The SMS stage at presentation was significantly greater in OOW compared to NW patients for both females (5.9±1.8 vs. 5.2±1.7; P =0.003) and males (4.9±1.9 vs. 4.1±1.8; P =0.002). The major curve magnitude for OOW females was significantly different from NW females (36±16 degrees vs. 30±16 degrees; P =0.004). The major curve magnitude was not different for OOW and NW males ( P =0.3). At initial presentation, OOW patients present at a greater skeletal maturity as measured by the SMS compared with NW patients. OOW female patients present with a greater major curve magnitudes than NW female patients. These results highlight negative implications of the pediatric obesity epidemic as it relates to the AIS population. These findings can be used to counsel families and provide anticipatory guidance for the AIS treatment plan. Level III-cross-sectional study.

What Happens After a Vertebral Body Tether Break? Incidence, Location, and Progression with 5-Year Follow-up.

Retrospective review. To study risk factors for anterior vertebral body tether (VBT) breakage. VBT is used to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in skeletally immature patients. However, tethers break in up to 48% of cases. We reviewed 63 patients who underwent thoracic and/or lumbar VBT with minimum 5-year follow-up. We radiographically characterized suspected tether breaks as a change in inter-screw angle (ISA) >5°. Demographic, radiographic, and clinical risk factors for presumed VBT breaks were evaluated. In confirmed VBT breaks, the average ISA change was 8.1° and segmental coronal curve change was 13.6°, with high correlation (r=0.82). Our presumed VBT break cohort constituted 50 thoracic tethers, 4 lumbar tethers, and 9 combined thoracic/lumbar tethers; the average age was 12.1±1.2 years and mean follow-up of 73.1±11.7 months. Of 59 patients with thoracic VBTs, 12 patients (20.3%) had a total of 18 breaks. Eleven thoracic breaks (61.1%) occurred between 2-5 years postoperatively, and 15 (83.3%) occurred below the curve apex (P<0.05). Timing of thoracic VBT breakage moderately correlated with more distal breaks (r=0.35). Of 13 patients who underwent lumbar VBT, 8 patients (61.5%) had a total of 12 presumed breaks. Six lumbar breaks (50%) occurred between 1-2 years postoperatively, and 7 (58.3%) occurred at or distal to the apex. Age, gender, BMI, Risser score, and curve flexibility were not associated with VBT breaks, but the association between percent curve correction and thoracic VBT breakage trended toward significance (P=0.054). Lumbar VBTs were more likely to break than thoracic VBTs (P=0.016). Seven of the patients with presumed VBT breaks (35%) underwent revision surgery. Lumbar VBTs broke with greater frequency than thoracic VBTs, and VBT breaks typically occurred at levels distal to the curve apex. Only 15% of all patients required revision. 3.

Which factor is more reliable considering prophylactic pinning of contralateral hip of unilateral SCFE patients?

This study evaluates the radiological parameters of developing subsequent contralateral slips in unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) patients at the time of initial presentation. The study group included the review of unilateral SCFE patients treated between June 2007 and August 2018. Age, gen-der, side, stability, posterior slope angle, grade of slip, modified Oxford bone age score (mOBAS), the Risser classification, and the ap-pearance of the triradiate cartilage were evaluated retrospectively. Data were analyzed between two groups: subsequent contralateral SCFE (SCFESC) patients that developed contralateral slip during follow-up and unilateral SCFE (SCFEU) patients that did not develop contralateral slip up to skeletal maturity. Descriptive statistics were used to compare risk factors between groups. This study included 48 patients and 6 patients (12.5%) developed a SCFESC. Only mOBAS was significantly different be-tween groups. The mOBAS scores in SCFESC were 18 in 2 patients (33.3%), 19 in 4 patients (66.7%). The mOBAS scores in SCFEU were 18 in 1 patient (2.4%), 19 in 24 patients (57.1%), and >20 in 17 patients (40.5%). In the SCFESC group, all patients had a Risser score of 0 and all had open triradiate cartilage. Patients with unilateral SCFE are at risk for SCFESC, and the mOBAS is the best predictor of risk assessment. We agree that mOBAS score of 16,17 or 18 patients' contralateral hips can be prophylactically pinned. We also suggest pinning or close screening of mOBAS 19 patients that some carry relatively high risk of subsequent contralateral slip.

P73. Change of cervical sagittal alignment after surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): comparison of vertebral body tethering (VBT) versus posterior spinal fusion

P73. Change of cervical sagittal alignment after surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): comparison of vertebral body tethering (VBT) versus posterior spinal fusion

Predicting final results of brace treatment of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: first out-of-brace radiograph is better than in-brace radiograph-SOSORT 2020 award winner.

In-brace radiograph of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has been shown to reflect brace efficacy and the possibility of achieving curve correction. Conversely, the first out-of-brace radiograph could demonstrate the patient's ability to maintain the correction. We aimed to determine which of the two radiographs is the best predictor of the Cobb angle at the end of treatment (final radiograph). Retrospective cohort study of a prospective dataset. The population was selected based on the following inclusion criteria: AIS, age 10-18years; Risser score 0-2; Cobb angle 25-40°; brace treatment; availability of all radiographs. Pearson correlations provide a first exploration of data. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression model tested the predictors. Finally ROC curve provided a check of model accuracy. A total of 131 patients were included (mean age 13.0 ± 1.3, Cobb angle 33.2 ± 5.5°; 78% females). At the end of treatment, 56% had stabilised, 9% had progressed, and 44% had improved. The difference between the in-brace and final radiographs was 8.0 ± 6.0°, while the difference between the first out-of-brace and final radiographs was 1.8 ± 5.2°. The best predictor of final outcome was the first out-of-brace radiograph (0.80), compared to in-brace (0.68) and baseline (0.59) radiographs. The best cut-offs to predict avoidance of progression were 30% and 10% of the correction rates for the in-brace and first out-of-brace radiographs, respectively. The first out-of-brace radiograph predicts end results better than the in-brace radiograph. It offers an excellent clinical reference for clinicians and patients. The first out-of-brace radiograph should be considered an essential element of future predictive models. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 1: Diagnostic: individual cross-sectional studies with consistently applied reference standard and blinding.

Benchmarking surgical indications for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis across time, region, and patient population: a study of 4229 cases.

There is no identified consensus for the curve magnitude at which an adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patient is indicated for posterior spinal fusion (PSF). We aimed to identify a benchmark for curve magnitude at which fusion is indicated; we also aimed to evaluate which patients were being fused under 50°. A prospective multicenter AIS database was queried to identify patients who underwent PSF for AIS. Clinical outcome and demographic information was collected along with anatomic area of the primary curve. Benchmarking was assessed by median and IQR. Patients were stratified by fusion prior to 50° or at 50° or more, and statistical analysis was performed to assess risk factors for fusion < 50°. 4229 patients were included in the analysis. The median indication for PSF in the thoracic curve cohort was 55°, and in the lumbar curve cohort was 51°. Site-specific evaluation showed that two sites were more likely to fuse < 50° compared to all other sites (p < 0.05). Over time, the percentage of patients being fused < 50° has declined (p < 0.05). On univariate and multivariate analysis, lumbar curve location, increasing Risser score and female sex were all risk factors for fusion < 50° (p < 0.05). Low SRS-24 scores did not correlate to fusion below 50°. There exist location-specific indications for posterior spinal fusion that vary throughout the country. Additionally, increasing maturity, female sex, and lumbar curve location are independent risk factors for fusion under 50°.

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy for Vertebral Body Tethering of Juvenile and Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Tips and Tricks of Surgical Multidisciplinary Management.

VATS (video assisted thoracoscopic surgery) is routinely and successfully performed in minor and major complex thoracic procedures. This technique has been recently introduced for the treatment of severe forms of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) with the aim to repair the deformity, reduce morbidity and to prevent its progression in patients with skeletal immaturity. This study aims to present VATS in anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) approach to support the pediatric orthopedic surgeons during vertebral body fixation. Surgical and anesthesiologic tips and tricks are reported to assure a safe procedure. The study includes preadolescents with IS and a grade of scoliosis >40° that had a high probability of deterioration due to remaining growth (December 2018 to April 2021). Skeletal immaturity of enrolled patients was assessed by Sanders classification and Risser sign. Patients had a Risser score between 0 and 1 and a Sanders score >2 and <5. AVBT technique using VATS was performed by a senior pediatric surgeon assisting the pediatric orthopedic surgeon. Twenty-three patients have been submitted to VATS AVBT in the period of study (age range 9–14 years). The patients had a classified deformity Lenke 1A or B convex right and all types of curves were treated. In all patients, the vertebrae submitted to tethering surgery ranged from D5 to D12; mean curve correction was 43%. Three postoperative complications occurred: one late postoperative bleeding requiring a chest tube positioning on 12th postoperative day; one screw dislodged and needed to be removed; one child showed worsening of the scoliosis and needed a posterior arthrodesis. Initial results of VATS AVBT in growing patients with spinal deformities are encouraging. An appropriate selection of patients and a pediatric dedicated multidisciplinary surgical approach decrease intraoperative complications, time of operation and postoperative sequelae and guarantee an optimal outcome.

The impact of COVID-19 on idiopathic scoliosis referrals: cause for concern.

Study designRetrospective comparative review.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the short-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the demographic and clinical profile of new idiopathic scoliosis (IS) patients, with a particular focus on treatment and late referral.Summary of background dataThe COVID-19 pandemic has limited health-care services and public access and, as a result, the diagnosis and management of non-COVID-19 health conditions have been compromised. Delayed diagnosis of IS may limit conservative treatment options and subsequently, increase a patient’s risk of requiring surgical intervention.MethodsThe volume of spine referrals received and new IS clinic visits were compared between March 15–October 15, 2019 and the same period in 2020. A chart and radiographic review detailed the patient profile at initial presentation. Descriptive statistics and comparative analyses examined the referral source, curve magnitude, skeletal maturity, and prescribed treatment. Late referrals were those with a curve magnitude ≥ 50°, or > 40° and Risser 2 or less.ResultsDuring the 2020 study period, the referral volume decreased 76% and clinic visits 55%. The 2019 cohort was similar in age (13.7 ± 2.1 years vs 13.3 ± 2.3 years, p = 0.08), Risser score distribution (p = 0.32), menarchal status (0.07), and curve magnitude (37.1° ± 3.8° vs 39.0° ± 16.0°, p = 0.22). During the pandemic, there was an increased proportion of referrals made by pediatricians (41 to 54%, p = 0.01). The proportion of brace prescriptions increased from 30 to 42% (p = 0.01). The proportion of surgical bookings and late referrals were increased but did not reach significance.ConclusionDespite no significant increase in the magnitude of the curve at initial presentation or the proportion of late referrals, there was a marked decrease in referral volume, over the first 7 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggests that the majority of expected new IS patients remain undiagnosed. A future increase in late referrals should be anticipated.Level of evidenceIII.

Гало-гравітаційна тракція при лікуванні складних (&gt;100°) деформацій хребта в дітей із респіраторними дисфункціями

HGT is a safe technique as the world literature describes complications in the form of loosening of the pins or superficial infections of the skin around the pins, which are not significant and do not pose a threat to the patient’s life. Purpose – to improve the results of the ventilation function of the lungs in patients with complex spinal deformities through the preliminary use of halo gravity traction and to introduce an effective and safe method for the treatment of complex spinal deformities in children with respiratory dysfunctions. Materials and methods. 64 children with complex spinal deformities (&gt;100°) were treated in the orthopedic and traumatology department of the Okhmatdet NSPU using halo gravity traction during the period from 2003 until 2018. Of these, 38 are boys and 26 are girls. The average age of the patients was 11.6 years. The average Risser score was 3.8 (P&gt;0.01). Results. According to the data of spirography performed, 46% of patients had moderate ventilation disorders and 54% – severe ventilation disorders (FVC&lt;60% – grade 3 and 4 of ventilation failure). Mixed type disorders were recorded in 83% of patients, and restrictive type disorders in 17% (8/48) of children. After HGT, there was an improvement in pulmonary function indicators: an increase in FVC from 63.19% to 71.77% and FEV1 from 54.71% to 65.46%, Tiffeneau-Pinelli index – from 74.59% to 85.33%. Compared with the initial level of indicators, the improvement in FVC was 13.6% after HGT and 14.6% in dynamics during the year, and FEV1 – 19.6% and 21.6%, respectively. The results obtained indicate a significant improvement in the ventilation function of the lungs, especially due to the degree of FEV1 increase, which correlates with the degree of improvement in performance, mortality and life prognosis. Conclusions. The use of HGT makes it possible to improve the results of the final correction of spinal deformity, which in turn significantly improves the ventilation function of the lungs, which in turn helps to reduce the risks of mortality due to pulmonary insufficiency in adulthood. The choice of the appropriate methods of surgical correction for complex deformity of the spine is a prerequisite for successful treatment and the achievement of three-dimensional correction of the spine to maximally approximate its parameters to the physiological norm. The indication for halo gravity traction is a rigid scoliotic deformity of the spine with a deformity angle (&gt;100°). This study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The research protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the institutions mentioned in the work. Informed parental agreement was obtained for the research. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors. Key words: spinal deformity, respiratory dysfunctions, halo-gravity traction.

P103. Sagittal alignment after mini open vertebral body tether versus posterior fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Sagittal alignment is integral to a patient's quality of life. Posterior spinal fusion (PSF) is currently the standard for correcting adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Vertebral body tethering (VBT) is a fusionless growth modulating surgical technique used to treat AIS. It relies on the Hueter-Volkmann Law. Indications for this procedure include patients who have coronal curves up to 50 °, growth remaining, and no excessive thoracic kyphosis. VBT has been shown to have good coronal plane deformity correction. There have been less examinations of the sagittal effects of VBT. Sagittal alignment is significantly associated with a patient's quality of life. This underscores the importance of sagittal alignment when correcting the coronal deformity in these patients. PURPOSE We show that VBT for correction of AIS is non-inferior with regards to sagittal alignment compared to PSF. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective review of AIS patient treated by VBT and PSF at a single medical center. PATIENT SAMPLE Data was collected from our AIS database of VBT and PSF fusion patients. OUTCOME MEASURES Our outcome measures are sagittal vertical axis (SVA), cervical SVA (cSVA), pelvic tilt (PT), thoracic kyphosis (TK), cervical lordosis (CL), L4-S1 lordosis, L5 slope, T1 pelvic angle (TPA) and pelvic incidence lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL). METHODS We propensity matched by age, Risser score and Lenke classification. We compared preoperative and postoperative sagittal parameters measured by Surgimap with statistical significance set at p<0.050. RESULTS Comparing PSF to VBT there was no statistically significant difference in change between preoperative and postoperative cSVA (-.45, SD=6.85 vs .97, SD=5.59, P=.48); PT (4.12, SD=6.49 vs 3.41, SD=4.50, P=.68); TK (1.65, SD=12.12 vs -1.59, SD=10.49, P=.35); CL (3.62, SD=8.87 vs 9.04, SD=13.82, P=.16); L4-S1 lordosis (3.25, SD=7.78 vs 6.09, SD=10.19 , P=.34); SVA (-14.95, SD=30.92 vs -26.82, SD=35.76, P=.34); L5 slope (-1.36, SD=5.91vs -2.95, SD=5.43, P=.44); TPA (4.42, SD=7.69 vs 5.21, SD=6.40, P=.74); and PI-LL (5.48, SD=10.96 vs 6.49, SD=10.80 P=.76). CONCLUSIONS VBT and PSF for AIS result in statistically similar changes in sagittal alignment parameters. The fact that we showed similar results comparing sagittal alignment in fusion and VBT groups indicates that VBT is non-inferior from a sagittal perspective. It is important to maintain sagittal alignment when correcting AIS. Future work can examine the long-term effect of VBT on sagittal alignment. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs. Sagittal alignment is integral to a patient's quality of life. Posterior spinal fusion (PSF) is currently the standard for correcting adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Vertebral body tethering (VBT) is a fusionless growth modulating surgical technique used to treat AIS. It relies on the Hueter-Volkmann Law. Indications for this procedure include patients who have coronal curves up to 50 °, growth remaining, and no excessive thoracic kyphosis. VBT has been shown to have good coronal plane deformity correction. There have been less examinations of the sagittal effects of VBT. Sagittal alignment is significantly associated with a patient's quality of life. This underscores the importance of sagittal alignment when correcting the coronal deformity in these patients. We show that VBT for correction of AIS is non-inferior with regards to sagittal alignment compared to PSF. Retrospective review of AIS patient treated by VBT and PSF at a single medical center. Data was collected from our AIS database of VBT and PSF fusion patients. Our outcome measures are sagittal vertical axis (SVA), cervical SVA (cSVA), pelvic tilt (PT), thoracic kyphosis (TK), cervical lordosis (CL), L4-S1 lordosis, L5 slope, T1 pelvic angle (TPA) and pelvic incidence lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL). We propensity matched by age, Risser score and Lenke classification. We compared preoperative and postoperative sagittal parameters measured by Surgimap with statistical significance set at p<0.050. Comparing PSF to VBT there was no statistically significant difference in change between preoperative and postoperative cSVA (-.45, SD=6.85 vs .97, SD=5.59, P=.48); PT (4.12, SD=6.49 vs 3.41, SD=4.50, P=.68); TK (1.65, SD=12.12 vs -1.59, SD=10.49, P=.35); CL (3.62, SD=8.87 vs 9.04, SD=13.82, P=.16); L4-S1 lordosis (3.25, SD=7.78 vs 6.09, SD=10.19 , P=.34); SVA (-14.95, SD=30.92 vs -26.82, SD=35.76, P=.34); L5 slope (-1.36, SD=5.91vs -2.95, SD=5.43, P=.44); TPA (4.42, SD=7.69 vs 5.21, SD=6.40, P=.74); and PI-LL (5.48, SD=10.96 vs 6.49, SD=10.80 P=.76). VBT and PSF for AIS result in statistically similar changes in sagittal alignment parameters. The fact that we showed similar results comparing sagittal alignment in fusion and VBT groups indicates that VBT is non-inferior from a sagittal perspective. It is important to maintain sagittal alignment when correcting AIS. Future work can examine the long-term effect of VBT on sagittal alignment.

CLASSIFYING ISCHIAL TUBEROSITY AVULSION FRACTURES BY OSSIFICATION STAGE AND TENDON ATTACHMENT

Background:Currently, there is no classification system for ischial tuberosity avulsion fractures.Hypothesis/Purpose:To provide a new classification system for ischial tuberosity fractures based on the ossification pattern of the apophysis.Methods:We performed a retrospective records review of patients diagnosed with ischial tuberosity avulsion fractures at our institution from 2008 to 2018. Skeletal maturity (Modified Oxford score [MOS], Risser score), fracture type, size, and displacement were recorded based on initial injury radiographs. We reviewed a large series of pelvic CT and MRI scans from patients aged 10-19 years old to assess the ossification pattern and tendinous attachments of the ischial tuberosity. Pelvic CT review demonstrated a reproducible 5-stage pattern of ossification spanning the age of 13-19 years for males and 12-17 years for females (Figure 1). Review of available CTs and MRIs indicated that the semimembranosus attaches at the most lateral ossification center, followed by the conjoint tendon and adductor magnus as one moves medially (Figures 1). We created a classification system based on location of the ischial tuberosity avulsion fracture: Type 1 (lateral – semimembranosus and conjoint tendons) or Type 2 (complete – semimembranosus, conjoint, and adductor magnus tendons). An A or B descriptor was then added to distinguish minimally displaced (<1 cm) and displaced (≥1 cm) fractures, respectively (Figure 2).Results:We identified 45 ischial tuberosity fractures. Mean age was 14.4 years (range, 10.3–18). Males accounted for 82% of the cohort. Type 1 fractures accounted for 47% of cases and 53% were classified as Type 2. Type 1 fractures were associated with younger age chronological age (p=0.001), lower MOS (p=0.002), lower Risser score (p=0.002), less displacement (p=0.001), and smaller size (p<0.001), when compared with Type 2 fractures (Table 1). Of the 45 patients, 18 had >6 month follow-up with 56% going on to non-union. Non-union was associated with greater displacement (p=0.016) and size (p=0.027). When comparing union rates by fracture location, 33% of Type 1 fractures progressed to non-union, while 78% percent of Type 2 suffered a non-union; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance (p=0.153) (Table 2).Conclusion:In younger patients (ages 13-15 years), the lateral ossification centers of the ischial tuberosity, at which the hamstrings attach, are at risk for isolated avulsion injury. However, in older patients (16-18 years), coalescence of the hamstring and adductor magnus ossification centers predispose patients to a combined avulsion injury consisting of a larger fragment and with greater displacement.Figure 1:Figure 2:

What happens to the unfused upper thoracic curve after posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?

Spontaneous lumbar curve correction after selective thoracic fusion in surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is well described. However, only a few articles have described the course of the uninstrumented upper thoracic (UT) curve after fusion, and the majority involve a hybrid construct. In this study, the authors sought to determine the outcomes and associated factors of uninstrumented UT curves in patients with AIS. The authors retrospectively reviewed a prospectively collected multicenter AIS registry for all consecutive patients with Lenke type 1-4 curves with a 2-year minimum follow-up. UT curves were considered uninstrumented if the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) did not extend above 1 level from the lower end vertebra of the UT curve. The authors defined progression as > 5°, and divided patients into two cohorts: those with improvement in the UT curve (IMP) and those without improvement in the UT curve (NO IMP). Radiographic, demographic, and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 survey outcome measures were compared using univariate analysis, and significant factors were compared using a multivariate regression model. The study included 450 patients (370 females and 80 males). The UT curve self-corrected in 86% of patients (n = 385), there was no change in 14% (n = 65), and no patients worsened. Preoperatively, patients were similar with respect to Lenke classification (p = 0.44), age (p = 0.31), sex (p = 0.85), and Risser score (p = 0.14). The UT curves in the IMP group self-corrected from 24.7° ± 6.5° to 12.6° ± 5.9°, whereas in the NO IMP group UT curves remained the same, from 20.3° ± 5.8° to 18.5° ± 5.7°. In a multivariate analysis, preoperative main thoracic (MT) curve size (p = 0.004) and MT curve correction (p = 0.001) remained significant predictors of UT curve improvement. Greater correction of the MT curve and larger initial MT curve size were associated with greater likelihood of UT curve improvement. Spontaneous UT curve correction occurred in the majority (86%) of unfused UT curves after MT curve correction in Lenke 1-4 curve types. The magnitude of preoperative MT curve size and postoperative MT curve correction were independent predictors of spontaneous UT curve correction.

Evaluation of the Parameters Affecting Respiratory Functions at Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients.

This was a retrospective observational study. The objective of the study was to evaluate the spinal and extraspinal factors responsible for pulmonary dysfunction in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients. Development of thoracic deformity due to scoliosis results with the restrictive ventilatory pattern and the reduced pulmonary function. To prevent pulmonary function deterioration, it is imperative to understand which factors are causing the restrictive lung disease in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients. An online database search was conducted in a hospital computerized archive between 2008 and 2018 years. Cobb angle of >30 degrees, Lenke type 1 and 2 patients treated in a single spine unit were included. Coronal and sagittal Cobb angle, bending correction rate for evaluation of flexibility, Risser score, apical vertebra rotation (AVR), and pulmonary function test of patients were obtained. There was a moderate negative correlation between forced expiratory volume in the first second, forced vital capacity, and AVR. There was no correlation between forced expiratory volume in the first second and forced vital capacity with age, sex, Cobb angle, Risser score, kyphosis, and bending correction rate. When considering the results of the current study and the other studies in the literature there is not any strong correlation between the features of scoliotic curvature and respiratory functions. In the current study, 52 (72.22%) of 72 patients with moderate to severe scoliosis had mild to severe respiratory dysfunction. Considering the age-related physiological respiratory loss, to evaluate the necessity of surgical treatment in patients with moderate and severe scoliosis, especially in patients with high AVR, the respiratory functions of the patient should also be evaluated. Level III.

Classifying Ischial Tuberosity Avulsion Fractures by Ossification Stage and Tendon Attachment.

We propose a new classification system for ischial tuberosity fractures in adolescents that is based on the ossification pattern of the apophysis. We performed a retrospective review of patients who were diagnosed with ischial tuberosity avulsion fractures at a single institution from 2008 to 2018. Skeletal maturity and fracture location, size, and displacement were recorded based on initial injury radiographs. The fractures were classified by location as being lateral (type 1) or complete (type 2). Pelvic computed tomography (CT) review demonstrated 5 stages of ossification. We then reviewed pelvic CT and magnetic resonance imaging scans to assess the tendinous insertions at the ischial tuberosity apophysis. Reliability analysis was performed. We identified 45 ischial tuberosity fractures. The mean patient age was 14.4 years (range, 10.3 to 18.0 years). Boys accounted for 82% of the cohort. Forty-seven percent of the fractures were classified as type 1, and 53% were classified as type 2. Type-1 fractures were associated with younger age (p = 0.001), lower Risser score (p = 0.002), lower modified Oxford score (p = 0.002), less displacement (p = 0.001), and smaller size (p < 0.001) when compared with type-2 fractures. Of the 45 patients, 18 had follow-up of >6 months, with 56% going on to nonunion. Nonunion was associated with greater displacement (p = 0.016) and size (p = 0.027). When comparing union rates by fracture type, 33% of type-1 fractures progressed to nonunion, while 78% percent of type-2 fractures progressed to nonunion; however, this difference was not significant (p = 0.153). A review of the advanced imaging indicated that type-1 fractures involved the semimembranosus and conjoined tendons, whereas type-2 fractures also involved the adductor magnus tendon. We propose a new classification system based on the ossification pattern of the ischial tuberosity apophysis that reflects the skeletal maturity of the patient, the size and location of the fracture, and the amount of displacement, and likely predicts the probability of subsequent nonunion. The ischial tuberosity ossifies in a pattern similar to the iliac crest as described by Risser, and this pattern of ossification dictates the size of the ischial tuberosity avulsion fracture fragments and the involved tendons.

Clinical presentation, imaging findings, and arthroscopic features in skeletally immature and mature adolescent hip patients: a comparative double-cohort retrospective study.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in clinical presentation and extent of surgery required based on skeletal maturity between two cohorts of adolescent hip arthroscopy patients. We hypothesized that skeletal immaturity would be associated with a lower frequency of pincer impingement and a decreased need for surgical acetabuloplasty. A database of 1481 hip arthroscopies performed by a single orthopaedic surgeon between 2008 and 2016 was queried. Patients ≤18 years of age with femoroacetabular impingement were divided into two groups based on Risser score: Risser 1-4 (skeletally immature) or Risser 5 (skeletally mature). Groups were compared with respect to presentation, diagnosis, and arthroscopic procedures performed. Eighty-eight skeletally immature and 49 skeletally mature patients were included. Mixed impingement was more common in skeletally mature patients than immature (67.3% vs. 48.9%, P = 0.037). Skeletal maturity was associated with a significantly increased probability of undergoing acetabuloplasty (odds ratio = 4.6, 95% confidence interval 1.4-15.5; P = 0.014). Extent of chondral degeneration was similar between groups. Our findings support the hypothesis that skeletally immature hips undergo acetabuloplasty less frequently and demonstrate similar chondromalacia compared with a skeletally mature cohort. These results suggest that arthroscopic treatment for impingement-associated hip pain may be a reasonable option to consider for symptomatic skeletally immature patients who have completed a structured course of nonoperative treatment. Additional longitudinal outcomes data are needed to clarify the natural history of impingement-associated hip pain in younger populations and whether hip arthroscopy delays progression of osteoarthritis in these patients.

Correlation of collagen X biomarker (CXM) with peak height velocity and radiographic measures of growth in idiopathic scoliosis.

Prospective comparative study. Evaluate the correlation of CXM with established measures of growth. Theoretically higher CXM levels would correlate with rapid longitudinal bone growth and lower levels with growth cessation. Assessment of growth status in patients with pediatric spinal deformity is critical. The current gold standards for assessing skeletal maturity are based on radiographic measures and have large standard errors (SE). Type X collagen (COLX) is produced in the growing physis during enchondral ossification. CXM is a COLX breakdown product that can be measured in blood products. CXM, thus, is a direct measure of enchondral ossification. IRB-approved prospective study. Q6mo anthropometrics and spine PA biplanar slot scanner images including the hand were assessed for major Cobb, Risser score (RS), triradiate cartilage status (TRC), Greulich and Pyle bone age (BA), and Sanders Score (SS). Serial dried blood spots (DBS) to obtain CXM levels were collected 3 consecutive days Q1-2months based on SS. 47 idiopathic scoliosis patients, Cobb ≥ 20 were enrolled. Mean enrollment age was 11.8years (range 7.1-16.6years). 3103 DBS samples were assayed in quadruplicate. CXM results were highly reproducible with a 3% intraassay coefficient of variation (CV), and 12% interassay CV%. The CXM 3-day average was significantly correlated with BA R = 0.9, p < 0.001, RS R = 0.6, p < 0.001, SS R = 0.7, p < 0.001 and with height R = 0.7, p < 0.001. No patient with a CXM level < 5ng/ml had remaining growth. CXM is the first identifiable biomarker specific to longitudinal bone growth. Early results indicate that it is a patient-specific, real-time measure of growth velocity with high correlation to the established anthropometric and radiographic measures of growth. It is predictive of cessation of growth. It is highly reproducible with a low SE. Long-term follow-up is required to determine the ability of CXM to guide clinical decision-making.

Гало-гравітаційна тракція при лікуванні складних (&gt;100°) сколіотичних деформацій хребта в дітей: огляд клінічних випадків

Relevance. The definition of «complex spinal deformity» remains rather vague, but in most publications mark it as a deformation, which on average exceeds 100 degrees. Modern surgical practice of one-stage correction of complex spinal deformities includes performing osteotomies of the spine, which significantly improves the possibility of deformity correction, but also increases the risk of neurological complications and the volume of intraoperative blood loss. The aim. To improve the results of surgical treatment of patients with complex spinal deformities through the preliminary use of halogravitational traction and to establish an effective and safe algorithm for the treatment of complex spinal deformities in children. Materials and methods. During the period from 2008 to 2018, the Orthopedic and Traumatology Department of the National Children’s Specialized Hospital «OKHMATDYT» treated 48 children with complex spinal deformities (&gt;100°) using halo-gravity traction. Of these, 32 are boys and 16 are girls. The average age of the patients was 12.9 years. The average Risser score was 4.2 (P&gt;0.01). 27.1% of patients had type 1 deformity according to Lenke, type 2 – 54.1%, type 3 – 8.3%, type 4 – 6.4%, type 5 – 4.1%. Results and discussion. Using of halo- gravity traction for the preoperative reduction of spinal deformity and prevention of neurological disorders, the average duration of spinal traction application was 46 (P&gt;0.01) days. A weight of 40–50% of the patient’s body weight was used. After the stage of halo-gravity traction, the spine was stabilized with a polysigmentary construction. Conclusion. Halo-gravity traction as a first stage of severe scoliotic spinal deformations treatment allows to increase the mobility of the vertebral column and to adjust spinal cord step by step for the next correction treatment. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. Key words: spinal deformity, halo-gravity traction, surgical treatment.

Safety and efficacy of anterior vertebral body tethering in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis.

AimsSpinal fusion remains the gold standard in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. However, anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) is gaining widespread interest, despite the limited data on its efficacy. The aim of our study was to determine the clinical efficacy of AVBT in skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis.MethodsAll consecutive skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis treated with AVBT enrolled in a longitudinal, multicentre, prospective database between 2013 and 2016 were analyzed. All patients were treated by one of two surgeons working at two independent centres. Data were collected prospectively in a multicentre database and supplemented retrospectively where necessary. Patients with a minimum follow-up of two years were included in the analysis. Clinical success was set a priori as a major coronal Cobb angle of < 35° at the most recent follow-up.ResultsA total of 57 patients were included in the study. Their mean age was 12.7 years (SD 1.5; 8.2 to 16.7), with 95% being female. The mean preoperative Sanders score and Risser grade was 3.3 (SD 1.2), and 0.05 (0 to 3), respectively. The majority were thoracic tethers (96.5%) and the mean follow-up was 40.4 months (SD 9.3). The mean preoperative major curve of 51° (SD 10.9°; 31° to 81°) was significantly improved to a mean of 24.6° (SD 11.8°; 0° to 57°) at the first postoperative visit (45.6% (SD 17.6%; 7% to 107%); p < 0.001)) with further significant correction to a mean of 16.3° (SD 12.8°; -12 to 55; p < 0.001) at one year and a significant correction to a mean of 23° (SD 15.4°; -18° to 57°) at the final follow-up (42.9% (-16% to 147%); p < 0.001). Clinical success was achieved in 44 patients (77%). Most patients reached skeletal maturity, with a mean Risser score of 4.3 (SD 1.02), at final follow-up. The complication rate was 28.1% with a 15.8% rate of unplanned revision procedures.ConclusionAVBT is associated with satisfactory correction of deformity and an acceptable complication rate when used in skeletally immature patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Improved patient selection and better implant technology may improve the 15.8% rate of revision surgery in these patients. Further scrutiny of the true effectiveness and long-term risks of this technique remains critical.Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1703–1708.