Scoliotic growth in children with acquired paraplegia [proceedings]

1. 166 children with paraplegia occurring before the age of 15 are presented, of whom 116 are available for the study. 2. Scoliosis of more than 15 degrees developed in approximately one-half of the children. 3. Children with thoracic paralysis appear to be particularly endangered. 4. The primary spinal column injury as a result of an accident plays only a minor role in the development of scoliosis. 5. The asymmetric neurological level of paralysis is seen as a significant cause of scoliosis. 6. As prophylaxis, a spinal support as well as standing and walking exercises, including balance exercises, are recommended. 7. As possible therapy in cases with proven asymmetric neurological paralysis, rhizotomy of several thoracic spinal nerves may be discussed in order to achieve a balanced paralysis.