Idiopathic scoliosis: transcutaneous muscle stimulation versus the Milwaukee brace

This paper compared 3-year results of electrical stimulation with the Milwaukee brace for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Fifty patients in each group were compared retrospectively and matched for age, sex, Risser sign, and curve morphology. Evaluations were performed at 6-month intervals with radiographs and examinations. Skin irritation was the most common complication with electrical stimulation. Using survivorship analysis methods, no significant differences were found in rates of curve progression or failure. Overall, 70% of the patients in each group were successfully maintained over a course of 3 years. Electrical stimulation is comparable to the Milwaukee brace in managing idiopathic scoliosis.