Progressive age and other factors affecting scoliosis severity in cerebral palsy patients

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the age at which scoliosis progresses to a severe condition and identify the factors related to severe scoliosis in patients with cerebral palsy.

Patients and Methods: This retrospective study included 51 patients aged ≥15 years. The Cobb angle was measured over time using radiographs. Patients were divided into the following groups according to their final Cobb angle: <60°, 60°–100°, and ≥100°. The age at which the Cobb angle was ≥20° in the patients was compared among the groups. Moreover, the age at which a significant difference in the Cobb angle occurred in the groups was considered the age at which the scoliosis worsened. Association of the final Cobb angle with factors such as the location of curve, Gross Motor Functional Classification System (GMFCS), capability of turning over, orthosis use, hip dislocation, tracheotomy, and gastric fistula was examined.

Results: The mean age at which the Cobb angle was ≥20° was significantly lower in the ≥100° group. From 9 years of age, a significant difference was noted in the Cobb angle between the <60° group and ≥100° group. Between 13–19 years, a significant difference in the Cobb angle was observed among the three groups. Furthermore, GMFCS, capability of turning over, hip dislocation, and gastric fistula were the factors showing a significant difference among the three groups.

Conclusion: Scoliosis progressed to the severe form (Cobb angle ≥100°) at 9 years of age. Moreover, scoliosis is aggravated during the growth period. Severe cerebral palsy with low motor function levels and problems with internal functions was considered the cause of scoliosis deterioration.