Abstract
Aim:
The Lenke Classification for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) classifies curves as nonstructural if they reduce to less than 25° on bending radiographs. We aimed to establish whether there is a significant difference in curves assessed as structural/ nonstructural when comparing bending radiographs to forced traction radiographs.
Methods:
We undertook a retrospective database review of 100 consecutive AIS patients having undergone surgical correction by the 2 senior authors, together with radiographic review. Curves were classified according to the Lenke system including modifiers. Magnitude of the minor curves were compared on plain PA standing radiographs, bending radiographs and forced traction radiographs.
Results:
There were 35 Lenke 1 curves. 24 Of the minor curves measured greater than 25° on plain PA radiographs. None of these remained greater than 25° on either bending or forced traction radiographs.
There were 13 Lenke 2 curves, 11 of which had minor curves greater than 25°. None of these remained greater than 25° on either bending or forced traction radiographs. 14 Lenke 3 curves, 7 of which had minor proximal thoracic curves greater than 25°. 2 of these remained greater than 25° on bending whilst all reduced to less than 25° with traction. 8 Lenke 5 pattern curves, 5 of which had minor curves >25°. One curve remained >25° on both bending and traction radiographs. 8 Lenke 6 pattern curves none of which had a minor curve exceeding 25°.
Conclusions:
Our results have shown no significant differences between curves classified as structural/ non-structural based on results obtained for bending radiographs versus forced traction radiographs for any of the Lenke curve patterns.
Conflict Of Interest Statement: No conflict of interest.
