Stabilisation of progressive idiopathic scoliosis in the period of maturation in girls treated using Dobosiewicz's method (period of the observation >36 months)

Objective

The aim of the study was the retrospective analysis of effectiveness of conservative treatment of progressive idiopathic scoliosis (IS) in the period of maturation.

Study design

The analysis included twenty girls with IS (thirty-one curves; eleven double major, six thoracic, three thoracolumbar). The mean initial Cobb angle was 27.7 ± 7.52 degrees (range 15–45 degrees). Progression was defined as radiological documentation of a >6 degree increase in Cobb angle in six months. All patients were treated using Dobosiewicz's method [1–5]. The criteria of inclusion was a minimum observation period of >36 months spanning one year before and after first menstruation, with hospitalization at least two times in the Department of Rehabilitation. The mean duration of observation was 50.9 ± 16.7 months (range 37–91 months). Patient compliance was not taken into account in this analysis.

Results

Mean progression of Cobb angle in the study group was 0.6 ± 6.45 degrees (range -14 to +15°). Mean progression of AVR angle was 1.0 ± 5.76 degrees (range -15 to +15°).

Conclusion

The radiological results demonstrated prevalent stabilisation of scoliotic curves in girls with progressive IS, treated using Dobosiewicz's method.