Serial Casting for Early-Onset Scoliosis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Spinal Deformity Management
• Thoracic Development

Background:

• Early-onset scoliosis (EOS) poses risks to thoracic development and pulmonary function.
• The impact of Mehta casting on spinal and thoracic growth in EOS is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of serial elongation-derotation-flexion (EDF) Mehta casting on spinal deformity and thoracic growth in children with EOS.
• To explore correlations between initial deformity severity and treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 15 children with EOS treated with serial EDF Mehta casting.
• Radiographic measurements included Cobb angle, RVAD, spinal length, chest width, and lung space.
• Growth rates were estimated, and correlation analyses were performed.

Main Results:

• Mehta casting significantly reduced Cobb angle and RVAD.
• Treatment led to increases in spinal length, chest width, and lung space.
• Lower initial deformity severity correlated with greater estimated annual growth.

Conclusions:

• Mehta casting corrects spinal deformity and supports thoracic and axial growth in EOS.
• Early application in flexible, less severe curves may enhance structural outcomes and preserve thoracic development.