J Pediatr Orthop. 2026 Apr 10. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000003300. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Double-sided VBT (dsVBT) (bilateral application to thoracic and lumbar major curves) was reported to provide successful thoracic and thoracolumbar curve corrections in skeletally immature adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients when applied under strict inclusion criteria in the short term. The present prospective cohort study aimed to present at least 5 years’ results from the same study population to question the reliability of dsVBT in terms of correctional efficacy, growth modulation, and long-term functional outcomes.
METHODS: Thirteen consecutive skeletally immature (mean: Risser: 0, Sanders: 3) AIS patients [average age: 11.8 (11 to 14)] with flexible (≥30%) double curves and a history of failed bracing for at least 6 months, were included. After the detection of curve progression within the brace (>40° thoracic, >35° lumbar), a decision to proceed with dsVBT was established.
RESULTS: An average age, follow-up (FU) duration, and preoperative main thoracic and lumbar major curves’ magnitudes of 11.8 years-5.4 years-48° and 45° were noted. Average 11.3 levels were tethered. An average first erect thoracic and lumbar major curves’ magnitudes of 17° and 14° were improved to 6° and 4° at last FU. A mean thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis of 27° and 51° were acquired at the last FU. Mean total SRS-22 scores were improved from 2.9 to 4.9. Two patients underwent instrumented posterior spinal fusion after the fifth year because of overcorrection. No other complication was acquired.
CONCLUSIONS: At the end of 5 to 7 years, dsVBT provided 87% of thoracic (48° to 6°) and 91% of lumbar (45° to 4°) gradual and sustained major curve corrections owed to growth modulation together with significantly improved SRS-22 scores and preservation of coronal-sagittal balance underlining the safety and efficacy, if applied to skeletally immature AIS patients with double curves under strict inclusion criteria.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.
PMID:41955618 | DOI:10.1097/BPO.0000000000003300
