Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics · 1990 · 112 citations · 0 references
MedicineOrthopedic SurgeryPediatricsPediatric OrthopaedicsPediatric Orthopedic SurgerySpine SurgeryPediatric ScoliosisPediatric Spine DeformityPediatric Spine SurgerySpinal Cord InjurySpinal DeformitySpinal TraumaParalytic Deformity CorrectionPediatric Scoliosis SurgeryPediatric Spinal Cord InjuryPediatric Spinal DeformityPediatric Spinal InjuryPubertal Growth Spurt TimingScoliosis BracingSpinal Injuries
One hundred thirty children who sustained spinal cord injuries between birth and age 21 years were reviewed to determine the progression rate of paralytic scoliosis and the effects of bracing and surgery. Patients were divided into two groups: those injured before and those injured after the adolescent growth spurt. Scoliosis developed in 97 and 52%, respectively. Bracing was effective in delaying progression in the preadolescent group. The progressive paralytic spinal deformity did not appear to be related to the level of injury. The older patient is at much less risk for paralytic scoliosis, but still requires routine examination.