ACR Appropriateness Criteria^® Scoliosis-Child

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging Guidelines

Background:

• Scoliosis affects 2% of children, mostly idiopathic.
• Idiopathic scoliosis typically lacks vertebral, neuromuscular, or skeletal abnormalities.
• Radiography is standard for scoliosis assessment and monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the role of different imaging modalities in scoliosis evaluation.
• To present evidence-based guidelines for imaging in scoliosis.
• To define appropriate use of radiography, MRI, and CT.

Main Methods:

• Review of current medical literature.
• Application of RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and GRADE methodology.
• Expert opinion for evidence gaps.

Main Results:

• Radiography is the primary tool for scoliosis classification and monitoring.
• MRI is used selectively for neural axis abnormalities in high-risk patients.
• CT aids in characterizing bone anomalies and surgical planning.

Conclusions:

• Imaging guidelines help standardize scoliosis evaluation.
• Appropriate use of imaging ensures effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Multidisciplinary expert review ensures guideline relevance.