Screening for idiopathic scoliosis. Comparison of 90 cases shows less surgery by early diagnosis

We assessed the final outcome of curve progression in 90 consecutive school children with idiopathic scoliosis. 46 children treated 1971-76 were compared with 44 treated 1978-81, after the introduction of school screening in 1977. There was a decrease in demand for surgery from 45 percent before screening to 10 percent in the screening group. When differences in subsequent brace types were accounted for, the outcome remained better in cases detected during the screening period. The most probable explanation is the earlier onset of bracing in the screened group.