The Sforzesco brace can replace cast in the correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A controlled prospective cohort study
2008

Sforzesco Brace vs. Cast for Scoliosis Correction

Sample size: 50 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Negrini Stefano, Atanasio Salvatore, Negrini Francesco, Zaina Fabio, Marchini Gianfranco

Primary Institution: ISICO (Italian Scientific Spine Institute)

Hypothesis

Can the Sforzesco brace achieve scoliosis correction results comparable to the Risser cast?

Conclusion

The Sforzesco brace can achieve scoliosis correction similar to the Risser cast, with fewer side effects.

Supporting Evidence

  • Compliance and hours of treatment were higher in the Risser cast group.
  • 56% of patients improved by at least 6° Cobb.
  • Only 6% of patients worsened during the treatment.

Takeaway

This study shows that a special brace can work just as well as a cast for treating scoliosis in kids, but it's easier to wear.

Methodology

Prospective cohort study with a retrospective control group comparing outcomes of patients treated with the Sforzesco brace and Risser cast.

Potential Biases

Potential selection bias due to patients' prior decisions regarding surgery.

Limitations

Retrospective data collection for the control group and lack of intent-to-treat analysis.

Participant Demographics

50 patients, average age 14.1 years, 40 females and 10 males.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1748-7161-3-15

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