Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Advances in Diagnosis and Management

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a disabling spinal pathology, with a significant morbidity if left untreated. This review investigates the recent advances in the diagnosis and management of AIS.

Low radiation techniques have become a paramount focus in the management of patient's with AIS. The EOS system is growing in popularity due to lower radiation compared to conventional radiographs with the added advantage allowing 3D reconstruction. Bracing remains the standard treatment for curves amenable to this, however, due to the importance in compliance with brace wear there has been a recent push for more personalized brace construction using 3-dimensional printing. If curves are not amenable to bracing, then surgical intervention is generally recommended. Posterior spinal fusion (PSF) remains the gold standard; however, newer growth modulating techniques are in their infancy. Anterior vertebral body tethering (VBT) is a relatively novel method of treatment for AIS, that has seen promising early results. Due to its novelty and varying results VBT use remains limited and will need to be further investigated. AIS is a complex disease without a clear understanding of it's etiology. If identified earlier, then non-operative treatment may lead to prevention of curve progression and the need for surgical intervention. Newer technologies, such as the EOS system, allow 3D reconstruction of curves which can assist with pre-operative planning. PSF remains the gold standard surgical intervention for AIS, however, new developments in alternative techniques could have a promising future, especially for skeletally immature patients.