Description
Adrian Gardner from Birmingham discusses scoliosis in children and teenagers, emphasizing its distinction from spinal deformities like kyphosis. He clarifies that scoliosis is characterized by a spine curve exceeding 10 degrees in the front-to-back view, which is often accompanied by vertical body rotation, making it a three-dimensional deformity. Gardner explains how to measure the Cobb angle and demonstrates how scoliosis leads to visible physical changes such as rib humps and spinal deformities. He advocates for routine MRI scans of significant scoliosis cases to identify potential non-idiopathic causes, as progression risk varies between idiopathic scoliosis and other types like neuromuscular or congenital scoliosis. He stresses the importance of monitoring growth spurts in children and the impact of social perceptions on aesthetic concerns related to scoliosis. Gardner references a significant natural history study of untreated scoliosis and discusses treatment methods, including bracing for curves between 20 to 40 degrees to direct growth appropriately. He talks about surgical interventions aimed at correcting scoliosis in all three planes and the associated risks of complications, including paralysis. Finally, he explores the implications of early-onset scoliosis on lung development and overall health, noting the potential for serious respiratory issues if left untreated. Gardner concludes by indicating advancements in treatment options and future growth modulation techniques for scoliosis management.