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Published on: October 16, 2013
Progression of scoliosis in children with myelomeningocele
E B Müller1, A Nordwall, A Odén
1Bräcke Ostergård, Regional Pediatricabilitation Centre, Göteborg, Sweden.
Insights
Scoliosis progression in myelomeningocele patients is often rapid, especially in those with curves over 40 degrees. Age and curve severity are key factors in predicting future scoliosis development.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Spinal Deformity Research
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Myelomeningocele is a complex congenital condition often leading to spinal deformities like scoliosis.
- Understanding scoliosis progression is crucial for timely intervention in affected children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the progression of scoliosis in patients with myelomeningocele.
- To identify predictors of rapid scoliosis curve development.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective follow-up of 64 myelomeningocele patients with existing scoliosis (>10 degrees).
- Mean follow-up duration of 4.3 years.
- Application of a multivariate model to predict 1-year scoliosis progress.
Main Results:
- Significant scoliosis progression observed, particularly before age 15.
- 54% of patients with curves ≥40 degrees progressed >5 degrees/year.
- Progression rate was dependent on the initial scoliosis angle.
Conclusions:
- Scoliosis progression in myelomeningocele is a significant concern, especially in severe cases.
- Predictive factors for scoliosis progression include curve angle, patient age, and neurological level.
Abstract:
In a retrospective follow-up of 64 patients with myelomeningocele and scoliosis of more than 10 degrees, the development of the scoliosis curve was watched. The mean follow-up was 4.3 years. Most progression of scoliosis can be expected before 15 years of age. Fifty-four percent of the patients with scoliosis of 40 degrees or more progressed more than 5 degrees per year. Progression was dependent on the scoliosis angle. A multivariate model for the prediction of the scoliosis progress in a 1-year perspective was applied. The model included the current scoliosis angle, the age of the patient, the skeletal level of the dysraphism, and the patient's ambulation capacity.
