Does scoliosis surgery improve quality of life? 5 key notes

A study recently published in the Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques examined quality of life for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients before and after surgery.

The study authors examined 33 patients who underwent surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The average age was 15.6 years old and average Cobb angle was 70.5 degrees. The patients were placed in two groups randomly, either receiving a hybrid procedure or pedicle screws alone.

The researchers found:

1. The results for SRS-30 and SF-36 significantly improved after surgery. The biggest changes were in the self-image and satisfaction with management domains of the SRS-30 survey.

2. The SRS-30 and SF-36 scores showed worsening pain and decreased function at three months after surgery. However, by 12 months after surgery the patients reported significant improvement from baseline.

3. The total SRS-30 scores were significantly improved at six months and 12 months after surgery.

4. Six and 12 months after surgery, sub-scores in these SF-36 areas were significantly improved:

• General health

• Vitality

• Social functioning domains

5. The curve magnitude, percent curve correction and instrumentation used did not have a significant influence over the SRS-30 or SF-36 scores.

"Surgical treatment of AIS improved patient quality of life, as shown by significant improvement on all SRS-30 and SF-36 domains," concluded the study authors.



Source : Beckers Spine Review , 21st Nov 2014