Reliability and validity between two instruments for measuring spine sagittal parameters in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis during various stages of growth / Confiabilidad y validez entre dos instrumentos para medir parámetros sagitales de la columna vertebral en adolescentes con escoliosis idiopática durante varias etapas de crecimiento

Abstract Introduction: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common and severe spinal deformity, which affects children and adolescents in the stage of neuromotor development and skeletal maturity of the sagittal curvatures of the spine. The literature presents several radiation-free instruments to assess and monitor the progression of scoliotic curvature angles in the AIS. However, the reliability and validity of the inclinometer at different stages of growth in relation to X-ray parameters has not been understood to date. Objective: To evaluate the reliability of the inclinometer and its validity with the X-ray exam on the sagittal parameters of the spine in the early and late growth stages of adolescents with AIS. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 39 adolescents with AIS who were divided into two groups: the initial growth phase (10-13 years) and the late growth phase (14-18 years). The evaluated sagittal parameters of the spine were the angle of the thoracic kyphosis and the angle of the lumbar lordosis, both measured by the X-ray image examination and the inclinometer. Results: The inclinometer showed excellent inter- and intra-examiner reliability for the different growth phases, early and late, with a strong association with the X-ray (gold standard; r = 0.84; p = 0.308 and r = 0.75; p = 0.517). The angle of lumbar lordosis was different between the inclinometer and X-ray instruments in the early and late stages of growth (p < 0.001), with moderate reliability and a less significant correlation with the gold standard of radiography (r = 0.38; p = 0.001 and r = 0.49; p = 0.024). Conclusion: The inclinometer showed excellent reliability and validity for the sagittal parameter of thoracic kyphosis in the early and late stages of growth. The angle of lumbar lordosis measured by inclinometer proved to be of moderate reliability and weak validity when considering the phases of skeletal growth, showing it to be an inefficient instrument for monitoring the lumbar scoliotic curvature for AIS.

Resumen Introducción: La escoliosis idiopática del adolescente (EIA) es la deformidad espinal más común y severa, que afecta a niños y adolescentes en la etapa de desarrollo neuromotor y madurez esquelética de las curvaturas sagitales de la columna. La literatura presenta varios instrumentos libres de radiación para evaluar y monitorear la progresión de los ángulos de curvatura escolióticos en el AIS. Sin embargo, hasta la fecha no se ha entendido la fiabilidad y validez del inclinómetro en diferentes etapas de crecimiento en relación con los parámetros de rayos X. Objectivo: Evaluar la confiabilidad del inclinómetro y su validez con el examen de rayos X sobre los parámetros sagitales de la columna vertebral en las etapas de crecimiento temprano y tardío de adolescentes con EIA. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal con 39 adolescentes con EIA que se dividieron en dos grupos: la fase de crecimiento inicial (10-13 años) y la fase de crecimiento tardío (14-18 años). Los parámetros sagitales de la columna evaluados fueron el ángulo de la cifosis torácica y el ángulo de la lordosis lumbar, ambos medidos por el examen de imagen de rayos X y el inclinómetro. Resultados: El inclinómetro mostró una excelente confiabilidad inter e intraexaminador para las diferentes fases de crecimiento, temprana y tardía, con una fuerte asociación con la radiografía (estándar de oro; r = 0.84; p = 0.308 y r = 0.75; p = 0,517). El ángulo de lordosis lumbar fue diferente entre el inclinómetro y los instrumentos de rayos X en las etapas tempranas y tardías del crecimiento (p < 0,001), con confiabilidad moderada y una correlación menos significativa con el estándar de oro de la radiografía (r = 0,38; p = 0,001 y r = 0,49; p = 0,024). Conclusión: El inclinómetro mostró excelente confiabilidad y validez para el parámetro sagital de cifosis torácica en etapas tempranas y tardías de crecimiento. El ángulo de lordosis lumbar medido por inclinómetro demostró ser de confiabilidad moderada y validez débil al considerar las fases de crecimiento esquelético, mostrándose como un instrumento ineficiente para monitorear la curvatura escoliótica lumbar para EIA.

Epidemiological profile of orthopedics and traumatology patients in Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil

Epidemiological studies, both in general and specifically, are part of the health promotion process and prophylactic actions that can generate treatment plans for a population, however, the accomplishment of prophylactic work in relation to musculoskeletal(i.e., traumatological) problems must start from the specific and go to the general, from cities to a national plan, since each population has its own characteristics in the general picture of conditions. Hypothetically, the epidemiological profile in traumatology and orthopedics, due to the general behavior in the national territory, presents the lack of prevention; in this way, is necessary to verify. This work aims to determine the incidence of orthopedic and traumatological problems in the region of Palmas, state of Tocantins (TO), Brazil, in order to contribute to a possible prophylactic plan for the population of the region. The data of the present study agree with most other studies about the orthopedic profile in terms of gender, age and problems with vertebral column, in general. However, the finding that most of the conditions were associated with scoliosis was unexpected, as it differs from the findings of most studies. It was possible to establish a profile of patients seen at the clinic-school and indicate the management of training for health professionals related to the treatment of people over the age of 40 years. The importance of the action of physiotherapists in the processes of prevention and primary care was evident given the patients indicated in this and other articles who need help with traumatic diseases.

Escoliosis idiopática del adolescente de bajo grado / Low grade adolescent idioaphic scoliosis

La escoliosis idiopática del adolescente (eia) es la forma de escoliosis más frecuente, afecta al 1 a 3% de los adolescentes. Su etiología aún no está totalmente definida siendo la causa genética la más probable. El objetivo principal del tratamiento es evitar la progresión de la curva y por ende prescindir del tratamiento quirúrgico. Tratamiento en curvas no severas dependerá de la madurez esquelética del paciente y de la magnitud de la curva, siendo la observación en curvas leves y el uso de corsé en las moderadas los tratamientos más aceptados.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (ais) is the most frequent form of scoliosis, affecting 1 to 3% of adolescent. Its etiology is not yet fully defined, being the genetic factor the most important. The main objective of the treatment is to avoid the progression of the curve and therefore dispense with surgical treatment. Treatment in non-severe curves will depend of the skeletal maturity of the patient and the magnitude of the curve, being the observation in slight curves and the use of corset in the moderate ones the most accepted treatments.

Photogrammetry: a proposal of objective assessment of chest wall in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis / Fotogrametria: uma proposta de avaliação objetiva da caixa torácica na escoliose idiopática do adolescente

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the chest wall shape in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in comparison to healthy subjects and the association between the chest wall shape with the spine deformity and lung function in patients with AIS. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 30 AIS patients and 20 healthy subjects aged 11-18 years old. The Cobb angle evaluation was performed in AIS patients. The chest wall shape was assessed by the photogrammetry method, using the Postural Assessment Software (PAS). We created thoracic markers shaped as angles (A) and distances (D), as follows: A2 (right acromion/xiphoid/left acromion), A4L (angle formed between the outer point of the smallest waist circumference and its upper and lower edges on the left side), A7 (angle formed by the intersection of the tangent segments of the upper and lower scapulae angles), D1R/D1L [distance between the xiphoid process and the last false rib on the right (R) and left (L) sides], and D3 (distance between xiphoid process and anterior superior iliac spine). Results: The thoracic markers A2 and A7 were significantly higher, while the A4L and D1R/D1L were significantly reduced in the AIS group compared to the control. Moderate correlations were found between: A2 and the main and proximal thoracic Cobb angles (r=0.50, r=0.47, respectively); D1R/D1L and the main thoracic Cobb angle (r=- 0.40); and the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and D3R (r=0.47). Conclusions: The photogrammetry method was able to detect chest wall changes in AIS patients, besides presenting correlation between Cobb angles and lung function.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o formato da caixa torácica em pacientes com escoliose idiopática do adolescente (EIA), comparando-os com indivíduos saudáveis e analisar a associação do formato da caixa torácica com a deformidade da coluna vertebral e função pulmonar em pacientes com EIA. Métodos: Estudo transversal que avaliou 30 pacientes com EIA e 20 indivíduos saudáveis com idade entre 11 e 18 anos. O ângulo de Cobb foi avaliado em pacientes com EIA. O formato da caixa torácica foi analisado pelo método da fotogrametria, utilizando o Software para Avaliação Postural (SAPO). Foram criados marcadores torácicos descritos como ângulos (A)e distâncias (D): A2 (acrômio direito/processo xifoide/acrômio esquerdo), A4E (ângulo formado entre o ponto externo da menor circunferência da cintura e suas bordas superior e inferior do lado esquerdo), A7 (ângulo formado pela interseção das retas tangentes aos ângulos superior e inferior das escápulas), D1D/D1E [distância entre o processo xifoide e a última costela falsa nos lados direito (D) e esquerdo (E)] e D3 (distância entre o processo xifoide e a espinha ilíaca anterossuperior). Resultados: Os marcadores torácicos A2 e A7 foram significativamente maiores, enquanto o A4E e o D1D/D1E foram significativamente menores no grupo EIA em relação ao controle. Foram encontradas correlações moderadas entre: A2 e os ângulos de Cobb torácico principal e proximal (r=0,50 e r=0,47, respectivamente); D1D/D1E e o ângulo de Cobb torácico principal (r=-0,40); e o volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1) e D3D (r=0,47). Conclusões: O método da fotogrametria detectou alterações na caixa torácica de pacientes com EIA, além de apresentar correlações significativas entre os ângulos de Cobb e a função pulmonar.

Método não ionizante de rastreamento da escoliose idiopática do adolescente em escolares / Non-ionizing method of screening adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in schoolchildren

Resumo Escoliose idiopática do adolescente (EIA) atinge de 2% a 4% de jovens no Brasil. Repetidas exposições aos exames radiológicos, no acompanhamento desta deformidade, podem ser danosos à saúde. O objetivo deste estudo é apresentar um protocolo de fotogrametria, como método não ionizante para quantificação da escoliose, e relacioná-lo ao método radiológico de Cobb. Dezesseis indivíduos portadores de escoliose idiopática (21,4 ± 6,1 anos de idade e 19,8±0,2 de índice de massa corporal) foram submetidos à radiografia posteroanterior do tronco, de pé e, posteriormente, fotografia do tronco posterior, após receberem marcadores anatômicos nos processos espinhosos das vértebras C7 até L5. As imagens foram encaminhadas para análise independente de dois examinadores treinados na quantificação da escoliose para o tipo de imagem recebida. A média angular torácica de Cobb e de fotogrametria foram 36,14° e 36,43°, respectivamente. A diferença média entre os métodos foi de 4,1°. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante (p-valor < 5%) entre eles. A fotogrametria, por ser não ionizante, ter baixo custo e ser portátil, poderá representar uma alternativa ao método radiológico. Novos estudos são necessários no aprimoramento das técnicas não ionizantes no rastreamento da EIA.

Abstract Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects 2% to 4% of young people in Brazil. Repeated exposures to radiation used in the monitoring of the deformity can be harmful to the health. This study aimed to present a photogrammetry protocol as a non-ionizing method to quantify scoliosis and relate it to the Cobb radiological method. Sixteen individuals with idiopathic scoliosis (age: 21.4 ± 6.1 years, body mass index: 19.8 ± 0.2 kg/m2) underwent standing posteroanterior X-ray examination of the trunk. Additionally, markers were placed on the spinal processes of the C7 to L5 vertebrae, and posterior trunk photographs were taken. All images were sent for independent analysis by two examiners who were trained in the quantification of scoliosis. The average of the thoracic curvature evaluated through the photogrammetry and Cobb methods were 36.43° and 36.14°, respectively. With an average difference of 4.1°, the methods were not statistically different (p < 0.05). As a non-ionizing method that is low cost and portable, photogrammetry may represent a suitable alternative to the radiological method. Further studies are needed for the improvement of non-ionizing techniques in AIS screening.

A rare case of centronuclear myopathy with DNM2 mutation: genotype­phenotype correlation

Centronuclear myopathy (CNM) is a group of rare genetic muscle disorders characterized by muscle fibers with centrally located nuclei. The most common forms of CNM have been attributed to X-linked recessive mutations in the MTM1 gene; autosomal-dominant mutations in the DNM2 gene-encoding dynamin-2, the BIN1 gene; and autosomal-recessive mutations in BIN1, RYR1, and TTN genes. Dominant CNM due to DNM2 mutations usually follows a mild clinical course with the onset in adolescence. Currently, around 35 mutations of the DNM2 gene have been identified in CNM; however, the underlying molecular mechanism of DNM2 mutation in the pathology of CNM remains elusive, and the standard clinical characteristics have not yet been defined. Here, we describe the case of a 17-year-old female who presented with proximal muscle weakness along with congenital anomalous pulmonary venous connection (which has not been described in previous cases of CNM), scoliosis, and lung disease without a significant family history. Her creatine kinase level was normal. Histology, special stains, and electron microscope findings on her skeletal muscle biopsy showed CNM with the characteristic features of a DNM2 mutation, which was later confirmed by next-generation sequencing. This case expands the known clinical and pathological findings of CNM with DNM2 gene mutation.

Evaluación de la función pulmonar en escoliosis idiopática del adolescente manejado con instrumentación posterior con sistema de ganchos sublaminares / Pulmonary function assessment in juvenile idiopathic scoliosis managed with posterior instrumentation with a sublaminar hook system

Resumen: Introducción: La escoliosis es una deformidad de la columna vertebral; se diagnostica por el método de Cobb presentando una angulación mayor de 10o en proyección radiográfica anteroposterior. Produce alteraciones pulmonares de tipo restrictivo en angulaciones mayores a 50o. Su manejo puede ser quirúrgico, mejorando la angulación y el proceso restrictivo pulmonar. Se comparó la función pulmonar pre- y postquirúrgica con espirometría. Material y métodos: 27 pacientes, cirugía correctiva mediante instrumentación posterior con ganchos sublaminares, barras y artrodesis posterolateral. Ambos géneros. 11-15 años. Espirometría prequirúrgica y postquirúrgica a los seis meses. Fueron excluidos quienes carecían de espirometría postquirúrgica y/o aquéllos con evento infeccioso pulmonar postquirúrgico. Índice de Cobb, pre- y postquirúrgico. Espirometría: función pulmonar, la capacidad vital forzada (VCF) y el volumen espiratorio forzado en un segundo (FEV1). Estadística descriptiva, t Student. Resultados: Femenino 78% y masculino 22%, 13.7 ± 1.22 años. Método de Cobb 40 a 110o; prequirúrgico, 64.48 ± 17.79o y postquirúrgico, 30.44 ± 10.90o. No hubo valor de 0o. Capacidad pulmonar: prequirúrgico VCF para los valores de la curva de escoliosis (p < 0.0001) y significativa marginal para FEV1 (p = 0; inicial 40.6-122.0%, media 76.3 ± 18.8%; postquirúrgico 40.75-112.6%, media 76.5 ± 16.8%. FEV1 prequirúrgico 39.83-111.59%, media 73.9 ± 16.8%; post­quirúrgico 42.86-120.79%, media de 69.7 ± 16.5. Diferencia estadísticamente significativa 0.064). Conclusiones: El sistema de ganchos sublaminares en abordaje posterior ofrece mejoría de la curva de la escoliosis idiopática del adolescente evaluada por método de Cobb, detiene el progreso del deterioro de la función pulmonar, con mejoría significativa para el volumen espiratorio forzado en un segundo.

Abstract: Introduction: Scoliosis is a spine deformity diagnosed using Cobb's method when the AP X-ray view shows an angulation greater than 10o. Scoliosis exceeding 50o results in restrictive pulmonary alterations. Surgical management improves the angulation and the pulmonary restrictive process. The pre- and post-operative pulmonary function values were compared using spirometry. Material and methods: 27 patients of both genders, ages 11-15 years, underwent corrective surgery using posterior instrumentation with sublaminar hooks, rods and posterolateral arthrodesis. Spirometry was done preoperatively and six months after the surgery. Patients without a postoperative spirometry and/or a postoperative episode of pulmonary infection were excluded. The pre- and postoperative Cobb index was calculated. Spirometry: lung function at forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Descriptive statistics, Student t test. Results: Females, 78%; males, 22%; 13.7 ± 1.22 years. Cobb method 40 - 110o, preoperative angle 64.48 ± 17.79o and postoperative angle 30.44 ± 10.90º. There were no 0o values. Lung function: preoperative FVC for the values of the scoliosis curve (p < 0.0001) and significant marginal FEV1 (p = 0. Baseline: 40.6-122.0%, mean: 76.3 ± 18.8%, postoperative: 40.75-112.6%, mean: 76.5 ± 16.8%. Preoperative FEV1: 39.8-111.59%, mean: 73.9 ± 16.8%, postoperative: 42.86-120.79%, mean: 69.7 ± 16.5. The difference was statistically significant, 0.064). Conclusions: The sublaminar hook system with a posterior approach provides improvement of the idiopathic scoliosis curve of adolescents assessed with the Cobb method. It stops the progression of lung function impairment, with a significant improvement in forced expiratory volume in one second.

Comparison of Cobb angle measurement in scoliosis by residents and spine experts / Comparação da mensuração do ângulo de Cobb na escoliose por residentes e especialistas em coluna / Comparación de la medición del ángulo de Cobb en la escoliosis por residentes y especialistas en columna

ABSTRACT Objective: The adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a spine deformity that occurs in both the coronal plane and the sagittal plane of patients between 10 and 17 years. The Cobb method is the most widely used to determine the angular value of scoliosis and it is defined as the "gold standard". The goal is to verify the reproducibility of the measured angles between orthopedic residents and spinal pathologies specialists, comparing the variability of the angles measured by professionals with greater and lesser experience. Method: A total of 10 radiographs of patients diagnosed with AIS were assessed. Radiographs were handed over to 7 orthopedists specialized in spine and 14 orthopedic residents. The measurement of the angles for each of the examiners was described using means and standard deviations and intraclass correlations were calculated, as well as the measure of repeatability, and Bland-Altman plots were designed with the results of the measurements of each group of examiners, according to experience, to assess the agreement/reproducibility of Cobb angle measurements. Results: Each examiner obtained a resulting average of 10 cases summation. In order to assess trends in variability of the measurements of the angles of each group graphs were plotted based on the arithmetic mean of each of the 10 cases by the total number of participants in the group versus the standard deviation in each case. Conclusion: There was a poor correlation (ICC=0.4) in the measurement of Cobb in both groups, demonstrating difficulties in the method, which cannot be overcome by the expertise.

RESUMO Objetivo: A escoliose idiopática do adolescente (EIA) é uma deformidade da coluna vertebral que ocorre tanto no plano coronal quanto no plano sagital de pacientes entre 10 e 17 anos. O método de Cobb é o mais utilizado para determinar o valor angular da escoliose e é definido como "padrão de referência". O objetivo é verificar se existe reprodutibilidade dos ângulos aferidos entre residentes de ortopedia e especialistas em patologias da coluna vertebral, comparando a variabilidade dos ângulos entre profissionais com maior e menor experiência. Método: Foram avaliadas 10 radiografias de pacientes com diagnóstico de EIA. As radiografias foram entregues a 7 ortopedistas especialistas em coluna e 14 residentes de ortopedia. As aferições dos ângulos de cada um dos examinadores foram descritas com uso de médias e desvios padrões e foram calculadas as correlações intraclasse, bem como a medida de repetitibilidade, e construídos os gráficos de Bland-Altman com os resultados das aferições de cada grupo de examinadores, conforme a experiência, para avaliação da concordância/reprodutibilidade das medidas do ângulo de Cobb. Resultados: Cada examinador obteve uma média resultante da somatória dos 10 casos. Com a finalidade de avaliar tendências nas variabilidades das aferições dos ângulos de cada grupo, foram elaborados gráficos baseados na média aritmética de cada um dos 10 casos pelo total de participantes do grupo versus o desvio padrão de cada caso. Conclusão: Houve uma baixa concordância (CCI = 0,4) na aferição do Cobb em ambos os grupos, demonstrando que há dificuldades no método, que não são transponíveis com a experiência.

RESUMEN Objetivo: La escoliosis idiopática del adolescente (EIA) es una deformidad de la columna vertebral que se ocurre tanto en el plano coronal como en el plano sagital en pacientes entre 10 y 17 años. El método de Cobb es el más ampliamente utilizado para determinar el valor angular de la escoliosis, considerado actualmente el "estándar de oro". El objetivo es verificar la reproducibilidad de los ángulos medidos entre los residentes de ortopedia y expertos en patologías de la columna vertebral, comparando la variabilidad de los ángulos entre los profesionales con mayor y menor experiencia. Método: Un total de 10 radiografías de pacientes diagnosticados con EIA fue analizado. Las radiografías fueron evaluadas por 7 ortopedistas especialistas en columna vertebral y 14 residentes de ortopedia. La medida de los ángulos de cada uno de los examinadores se describe con el uso de medias e desviaciones estándar y se calcularon las correlaciones intraclase y la repetibilidad de la medición, y los gráficos de Bland-Altman fueron diseñados con los resultados de las mediciones de cada grupo de examinadores, de acuerdo a la experiencia, para evaluar la concordancia/reproducibilidad de las mediadas del ángulo de Cobb. Resultados: Cada examinador obtuvo un promedio resultante del sumatorio de los 10 casos. Con el fin de evaluar las tendencias en la variabilidad de las mediciones de los ángulos de cada grupo, se prepararon gráficos en base a la media aritmética de cada uno de los 10 casos por el total de participantes en el grupo frente a la desviación estándar de cada caso. Conclusión: Se evidenció una concordancia baja (CCI = 0,4) en la medición de Cobb entre ambos grupos, lo que demuestra la presencia de dificultades en el método, que no puede ser transpuesta por la experiencia.

Iphone app use to Cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: Does this apply? / Uso de aplicativo de iphone para ângulo de Cobb na escoliose idiopática do adolescente: É aplicável? / Uso de aplicaciones móviles para Iphone para el ángulo de Cobb en la escoliosis idiopática del adolescente: ¿es aplicable?

To validate a new method of measuring the Cobb angle for scoliosis from the mobile app CobbMeter to facilitate the evaluation and measurement in clinical practice.

Validar um novo método de medida do ângulo de Cobb para escoliose a partir do aplicativo para aparelho telefônico celular CobbMeter para facilitar a avaliação e medição na prática clínica.

Validar un nuevo método de medición del ángulo de Cobb para la escoliosis a partir de la aplicación móvil CobbMeter, para facilitar la evaluación y la medición en la práctica clínica.

Relación entre escoliosis, sexo y lateralidad manual en una muestra de escolares / Relationship between scoliosis, sex and handedness in a sample of schoolchildren

De todo el conjunto de problemas que se desarrollan en la infancia, no cabe duda que la escoliosis ocupa un puesto importante debido a sus repercusiones en la edad temprana y adulta. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la relación existente entre el sexo, escoliosis y lateralidad manual. La muestra estuvo formada por 2822 participantes, con edad comprendida entre 6 y 12 años, pertenecientes a la provincia de Almería. Se utilizaron dos instrumentos de medida, es decir, inventario de lateralidad manual de Edinburgh y la prueba de Adams, para analizar las variables seleccionadas. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las variables lateralidad y sexo (p=0,106) ni entre lateralidad y escoliosis (p=0,673); pero sí entre escoliosis y sexo (p<0,001). Como principales conclusiones debemos señalar la importancia en el desarrollo de adecuados programas de intervención teniendo en cuenta el número obtenido de niños con escoliosis, sobre todo en niñas.

Based on the number of problems that develop during childhood, it is clear that scoliosis has an important place because of its impact and in early adulthood. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the relationship between sex, scoliosis and handedness. The sample consisted of 2822 participants, aged between 8 and 12 years, from the province of Almería. Two instruments were used to measure, Inventary Laterality of Edinburgh and Test de Adams, to analyze the selected variables. No statistically significant differences were found between the variables laterality and sex (p=0.106) or between laterality and scoliosis (p=0.673); significant differences however, were found between scoliosis and sex (p<0.001). Principal conclusions are the importance in the development of appropriate intervention programs bearing in mind the number of children with scoliosis, especially in girls.

Escoliosis en niños y adolescentes / Scoliosis in children and adolescents

La escoliosis es una deformidad de la columna que se presenta como una curva estructural que determina un grado variable de deformidad del tronco. La forma más común es la escoliosis idiopática del adolescente, que se desarrolla en la columna, en la fase de crecimiento y puede tener importantes efectos cosméticos y funcionales, pero es siempre un diagnóstico de exclusión. La escoliosis puede ser tratada con observación seriada, uso de ortesis o cirugía, según su magnitud y potencial evolución de severidad. Sin embargo, el comportamiento de la curva es frecuentemente difícil de predecir durante el desarrollo, por lo que el seguimiento clínico y radiológico seriado es clave en la decisión de tratamiento. Aparte de la cirugía, sólo el tratamiento con corset puede frenar la progresión de una curva, si bien no corregirla. Las curvas severas o que progresen dentro del corset tienen indicación de corrección y fusión quirúrgica. Las curvas noidiopáticas se comportan en forma diferente y su manejo es también distinto. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar los aspectos clave de la evaluación inicial de un paciente con escoliosis y entregar una visión actualizada del tratamiento de las distintas formas de presentación de esta afección.

Scoliosis is a structural deformity of the spine that can determine a varying degree of trunk deformity. It's most common presentation is that of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. This is a diagnosis of exclusion presenting itself in the growing spine and may result in significant cosmetic and functional effects. Depending on its severity, treatment may consist in serial observation, use of an orthosis or corrective surgery. Curve behaviour is however sometimes difficult to predict and clinical follow-up and serial radiographic review are fundamental during the developmental period. Aside from surgery, only brace treatment has demonstrated a capacity of containing curve progression for some cases. Severe curves or those that exhibit progression in spite of adequate brace treatment should be treated by surgical correction. Nonidiopathic forms of scoliosis present a different behaviour and require specific management. This article is to provides key aspects of the initial evaluation of a patient with scoliosis and offers an update on the management of it's most frequent forms of presentation.

Screening of Visually Impaired Children for Health Problems

PURPOSE: Disability is a significant problem and is accepted globally as a health priority in childhood. Like nonvisually impaired children, visually impaired children also need to use health services during childhood. The purpose of this study was to determine the health problems of visually impaired children. METHODS: A descriptive design was used. The subjects were 74 children with visual impairment attending primary school (aged 5e14 years), who agreed to participate and whose parents gave permission. Data were collected via physical examination including questionnaires and a physical assessment form. The health screening included physical measurements for height, weight, blood pressure, dental health, hearing, and scoliosis. RESULTS: The mean age of children was 10.43 +/- 2.9 years. When the health screening results of children were examined, it was found that 25.7% of the children were overweight or obese, 35.1% of them had dental problems, 27.0% had hearing problems, and 39.2% had scoliosis risk. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were normal in 91.8% and 93.2% of the children, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These findings showed the important role of school health nurses in performing health screenings directed at visually impaired children who constitute a special group for school health services. Health screening for height, weight, dental health, hearing, and scoliosis is suggested for visually impaired children.

Redução da escoliose idiopática juvenil pós-intervenção cinesioterapeutica: relato de caso / Reduction of juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis kinesiotherapeutic postintervention: case report

Aproximadamente 85 por cento das escolioses em crianças são idiopáticas, pois muitos fatores causais ainda permanecem desconhecidos e seu tratamento, essencialmente, consiste do reconhecimento precoce, correção das posturas existentes e prevenção à evolução da mesma. Objetivo: avaliar o efeito do programa de cinesioterapia postural no tratamento da escoliose idiopática juvenil. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo relato de caso, realizado na Clínica de Fisioterapia da Universidade do Sagrado Coração, Bauru - SP. O sujeito deste estudo de caso foi uma criança do sexo feminino, com 11 anos de idade, apresentando diagnóstico de escoliose idiopática. Foi realizada a avaliação fisioterapêutica postural completa e análise da radiografia da região tóraco-lombar para obtenção do grau de Coob da escoliose nos momentos pré e pós-intervenção fisioterapêutica. O programa de intervenção consistiu de exercícios para o reequilíbrio postural. Resultados: Por meio da análise radiográfica foram observa-dos 16 graus Cobb na pré-intervenção, diminuindo para 4 graus na pós-intervenção. Conclusão: De acordo com os dados obtidos no presente estudo, conclui-se que o programa de cinesioterapia, englobando diversos métodos e técnicas da fisioterapia, proporcionou importante resultado radiográfico com redução de 12 graus Cobb da escoliose da criança estudada...

Approximately 85 per cent of idiopathic scoliosis in children as many causal factors remain unknown and its treatment essentially consists of early recognition, correction of existing positions and prevent the evolution of it. Objective: evaluate the effect of program kinesiotherapy postural in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic scoliosis. Materials and Methods: This study is a case report, Physiotherapy Clinic at the Universidade do Sagrado Coração, Bauru - SP. The subject of this case study was a child of the female, 11 years old, with a diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis. Complete postural physiotherapy assessment and analysis of radiographs of the thoracolumbar region for the degree of Coob scoliosis in pre and post-intervention physical therapy was performed. The intervention program consisted of exercises for postural rebalancing. Results: By means of radiographic analysis of 16 degrees Cobb angle before intervention were observed decreasing to 4 degrees after intervention. Conclusion: According to the data obtained in this study, it is concluded that the program of exercise, involving multiple methods and techniques of physiotherapy, provided important radiographic outcome with reduction of 12 degrees Cobb scoliosis of children studied...

Moiré topography: an alternative to scoliosis evaluation in student's health

Moire's Topography (MT) is a method that detects scoliosis through shadows assymetry arised in the back. Few studies have discussed time of application, interpretation and operating cost. The aim of this study was to analyze operating aspescts of MT in students and to verify postural alterations by MT in the same group. 58 boys were analyzed in this study and through MT, the presence of shadow (fringes) in the back were evaluated where each assymetry corresponds to about 10º in Cobb's angle. MT marks were used to determine possible deviation. Data of interest received descriptive statistic analysis in variables such as total body mass, body mass index (BMI), weight, scoliosis, average time of analysis and diagnostic, and also the operation cost evaluation of equipment. Subjects (9,91 ± 0,79 years) showed total body mass of 37,83 ± 10,45kg, stature 1,42 ± 0,11m and BDI 18,53 ± 4,15 kg/m². The average time of analysis was 3,25 ± 0,29min. Among subjects 75% had deviation of one fringe in toracolumbar region that shows a scoliosis less than 10º. MT represented a fast method and of low operation cost that could be an important instrument in the screening of scoliosis. We concluded that MS confirmed to be practical and of easy handling where 94,6% subjects showed scoliosis. Our data suggests that the MSP insertion in the students' health care program of scoliosis identification is possible...

A Estereofotografia de Moiré (EFM) é um método que através da assimetria das sombras formadas no dorso detecta escoliose. Poucos os estudos tem discutido o tempo de análise, interpretação e custo operacional desta técnica. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram analisar os aspectos operacionais da (EFM) em escolares e; verificar desvios posturais pela EFM nesse mesmo grupo. Neste estudo foram analisadas 58 meninos e através da EFM, foram avaliadas a presença de sombras (franjas) no dorso, onde cada assimetria corresponde cerca de 10º no ângulo de Cobb. As marcações do EFM foram utilizadas para determinar os possíveis desvios. Os dados interesse receberam tratamento estatístico descritivo nas variáveis massa corporal total, índice de massa corporal (IMC), estatura, escoliose, tempo médio de análise e diagnóstico e, uma avaliação do custo operacional do equipamento. Os sujeitos (9,91 ± 0,79 anos) apresentaram uma massa corporal total de 37,83 ± 10,45kg, estatura 1,42 ± 0,11m e o IMC de 18,53 ± 4,15 kg/m². O tempo médio para análise foi de 3,25 ± 0,29min. Na amostra, 75% tiveram um desvio de até uma franja na região toracolombar o que indica uma escoliose menor que 10º. A EFM constituiu um método rápido e de baixo custo operacional podendo ser um instrumento importante no rastreamento de escoliose. Concluímos que a EFM de confirmou ser prático e de fácil manuseio que 94,6% dos sujeitos apresentaram escoliose. Os nossos dados sugerem que a é viável a inserção da EFM nos programas de saúde em escolares de detecção das escolioses...

Reproductibilidad del ángulo de Cobb en imágenes digitales obtenidas por fotografía de espinogramas de 30 X 90 cm. en escoliosis del adulto: comparación entre dos observadores y tres cámaras digitales / Reliability analysis for coronal Cobb angle measurements of digitally acquired photograph to the 30 X 90 cm. films in adult scoliosis: comparison among two observers and three digital cameras

Introducción: La fotografía digital de radiografías puede generar distorsiones angulares en las imágenes. No está publicado si estas alteraciones pueden afectar las mediciones de los ángulos de Cobb. Objetivo: Evaluar la reproducibilidad del ángulo de Cobb con la fotografía digital de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm en escoliosis del adulto. Materiales y Métodos: Se eligieron al azar 20 espinogramas preoperatorios de pacientes con escoliosis del adulto para evaluar prospectivamente. Los espinogramas fueron escaneados y sus imágenes digitales se consideraron como controles. Se analizó la discrepancia intraobservador, interobservador, intercámara e intracámara, con tres cámaras digitales y dos observadores que realizaron ocho sesiones fotográficas a cada espinograma. Se midieron los ángulos con Adobe Photoshop® sobre las imágenes digitales y se los analizó con el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: El promedio de los ángulos de Cobb torácicos y lumbares del escáner, las cámaras 1, 2 y 3 fue de 37,9; 37,8; 37,7; 37,5; 53,2; 53,1; 53,3; 52,9, respectivamente. La correlación interobservador e intraobservador fue extremadamente alta, así como entre las cámaras y el escáner. Conclusión: El ángulo de Cobb se puede medir luego de la fotografía digital de espinogramas de 30 x 90 cm, con alta reproducibilidad entre diferentes cámaras y observadores.

Background: Digital photography to radiographs can generate angular distortions to the images. It is not published if these distortions can affect the lines used for Cobb measurements in routine practice. Objective: To analyze reliability for coronal Cobb angle measurements of digitally acquired photograph to the 30 x 90 cm plain films in adult scoliosis. Methods: Twenty anteroposterior long-cassette scoliosis radiographs from adult patients who were operated on in one institution were randomly selected and prospectively studied. The endplates of the curves were selected and marked by one observer. The radiographs were scanned and the digital images were used as controls. The variability of the measurements was evaluated with three digital cameras and two observers making eight photographic sessions to each long-film. Over the digital images the Cobb angles were measured using Adobe Photoshop® and they were analyzed with the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: The overall mean thoracic and lumbar Cobb angles for the scanned, camera 1, 2 and 3 were 37.9, 37.8, 37.7, 37.5, 53.2, 53.1, 53.3, 52.9, respectively. The interobserver and intraobserver agreement was extremely high, as well as across cameras and scanner. Conclusion: The Cobb angle can be measured after digitally photographed films with high reliability among different cameras and observers.

Usefulness of Chest Radiographs for Scoliosis Screening: A Comparison with Thoraco-Lumbar Standing Radiographs

PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were to evaluate the usefulness and limitations of chest radiographs in scoliosis screening and to compare these results with those of thoraco-lumbar standing radiographs (TLSR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: During Korean conscription, 419 males were retrospectively examined using both chest radiographs and TLSR to confirm the scoliosis and Cobb angle at the Regional Military Manpower. We compared the types of spinal curves and Cobb angles as measured from different radiographs. RESULTS: In the pattern of spinal curves, the overall matching rate of chest radiographs using TLSR was about 58.2% (244 of 419 cases). Cobb angle differences between chest radiographs and TLSR with meaningful difference was observed in 156 cases (37.2%); a relatively high proportion (9.5%) of Cobb angle differences more than 10 degrees was also observed. The matching rate of both spinal curve types and Cobb angle accuracy between chest radiographs and TLSR was 27.9% (117 among 419 cases). Chest radiographs for scoliosis screening were observed with 93.94% of sensitivity and 61.67% of specificity in thoracic curves; however, less than 40% of sensitivity (38.27%, 20.00%, and 25.80%) and more than 95% of specificity (97.34%, 99.69%, and 98.45%) were observed in thoraco-lumbar, lumbar, and double major curves, respectively. CONCLUSION: The accuracy of chest radiographs for scoliosis screening was low. The incidence of thoracic curve scoliosis was overestimated and lumbar curve scoliosis was easily missed by chest radiography. Scoliosis screening using chest radiography has limited values, nevertheless, it is useful method for detecting thoracic curve scoliosis.

Synergistic convergence and split pons in horizontal gaze palsy and progressive scoliosis in two sisters.

Synergistic convergence is an ocular motor anomaly where on attempted abduction or on attempted horizontal gaze, both the eyes converge. It has been related to peripheral causes such as congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles (CFEOM), congenital cranial dysinnervation syndrome, ocular misinnervation or rarely central causes like horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis, brain stem dysplasia. We hereby report the occurrence of synergistic convergence in two sisters. Both of them also had kyphoscoliosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain and spine in both the patients showed signs of brain stem dysplasia (split pons sign) differing in degree (younger sister had more marked changes).

Um sistema de auxílio ao diagnóstico da escoliose baseado em realidade aumentada / An auxiliary system for scoliosis diagnostic based on augmented reality

Este trabalho propõe e descreve uma ferramenta, chamada de SADE (Sistema de Auxílio ao Diagnóstico da Escoliose), capaz de auxiliar o fisioterapeuta no diagnóstico do desvio lateral da coluna vertebral do paciente (escoliose), observando-a pela visão posterior. Um dos métodos de diagnóstico utilizados atualmente é realizado por meio de um painel, chamado simetrógrafo, posicionado verticalmente e paralelo ao corpo do paciente. Nesse método tradicional o fisioterapeuta não trabalha com boas referências, pois o painel possui linhas espaçadas. Isso obriga o fisioterapeuta a se posicionar a uma certa distância do paciente durante o exame, impossibilitando a interação com o mesmo. Já o SADE, que é baseado em Realidade Aumentada, disponibiliza uma melhor visualização, pois a coluna real é virtualizada e comparada a uma coluna ideal virtual, possibilitando maior mobilidade do fisioterapeuta e do paciente durante o diagnóstico, já que a coluna virtualizada é visível pelos monitores. A ferramenta disponibiliza também o armazenamento dos dados capturados em banco de dados, possibilitando assim uma análise histórica e visual do início do tratamento até o estado atual. Testes realizados dentro de um laboratório desenvolvido especificamente para o projeto, onde o SADE, o simetrógrafo e o método de palpação foram comparados, caracterizam a ferramenta proposta como promissora para auxiliar o profissional no diagnóstico da escoliose.

The paper proposes and describes a tool called SADE (Auxiliary System for Scoliosis Diagnose), which is able to assist the physio­therapist in diagnosing the deviation of the patient’s vertebral spine (scoliosis) observed by the posterior view. One of the current diagnose methods uses a panel called simetrograph, vertically positioned and parallel to the patient’s body. This method does not provide the physiotherapist with a good reference because the panel has spaced lines. Besides, the simetrograph compels the physio­therapist to stay away from the patient in every exam, making the interaction between patient and professional difficult. The SADE, which is based on Augmented Reality, allows a better visualization because of a virtualized spine and the virtual ideal spine, and gives better mobility to the patient and to the physiotherapist during the exam since the spine is visible through the monitors. The system also stores data in a database, allowing an historical analysis from the beginning of the treatment until the current stage. Tests done in a laboratory specifically prepared for the project, compared SADE, the simetrograph and the touch method, and the results have shown that SADE may be a promising tool to assist the physiotherapist in the diagnosis of scoliosis.