[Spinal deformity in Duchenne muscular dystrophy]

Boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy develop scoliosis in 95% of cases. Conservative management to avoid progression of the deformity is not successful. However, treatment with corticosteroids may avoid the onset of scoliosis in some patients. Early surgical treatment and spine fusion is usually recommended before severe cardiopulmonary symptoms have developed. With modern surgical techniques, the sitting ability and quality of life can be preserved with a moderate complication rate. An interdisciplinary approach is mandatory to achieve these goals.