THE RIB-VERTEBRA ANGLE IN THE EARLY DIAGNOSIS BETWEEN RESOLVING AND PROGRESSIVE INFANTILE SCOLIOSIS

TLDR

The influence of the infantile growth spurt on progressive curves and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment are examined. The method measures rib‑vertebra angles at the curve apex and observes the rib head relative to the vertebral body on antero‑posterior radiographs. Serial radiographs of 138 children under two years revealed a method that distinguishes resolving from progressive infantile scoliosis curves early. Footnotes 1–3 provide additional information.

Abstract

1. A study of serial radiographs of 138 children with infantile scoliosis starting under the age of two years has resulted in a method of early differentiation between resolving and progressive curves. 2. The method involves careful measurement of the rib-vertebra angles at the apex of the curve and observation of the relationship of the head of the rib to the body of the vertebra as seen in antero-posterior radiographs. 3. The influence of the infantile growth spurt upon progressive curves is examined and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment is stressed.