Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to identify factors that influence the Cobb angle at presentation to a tertiary referral scoliosis centre, and the outcome of the referrals.
Methods
81 consecutive patients referred were reviewed retrospectively. Hospital database, clinic letters and radiographs were examined. Patient demographics, mode of referral (GP vs. tertiary), severity and type of scoliosis were recorded. The season of referral was defined as ‘warm’ between months of June and September, and ‘cold’ between November and March. Cobb angle measurements were made independently on digital radiographs by 2 Orthopaedic trainees.
Results
There were 60 females and 21 males referred. Of these patients, 31 (38%) were offered surgery. The overall mean Cobb angle was 43° (SD 22.5°), where the surgical group was 58° (SD 20°) and the non-surgical group was 33° (SD 18°), p < 0.05. The mean age of the patients for surgery was 22, compared to 19 in the non-operative group (p < 0.05). There was no significant influence of sex, season of referral, and mode of referral on operations offered. Males had a higher mean Cobb angle (52°) than female (39°) with marginal significance (p = 0.09). Advancing age correlated with increasing Cobb angle (r = 0.2, p = 0.09) with marginal significance. No other factors influenced the presenting Cobb angle.
There was excellent inter-observer agreement in the Cobb angle measurements (α = 0.99).
Conclusion
High Cobb angle and age were the only significant predictors for requirement of surgery in a tertiary referral scoliosis centre. Secondary or tertiary referral did not influence the severity or the outcome of patients with scoliosis. This may imply that GP direct referrals to scoliosis centres are sufficient, especially if Cobb angle measurements and age are included in the criteria. Seasonal differences in scoliosis presentation were not found, however further comparison can be made with countries with warmer climate to demonstrate the cosmetic influence.
Ethics Approval: none
Interest Statement: none
