Objectives: 1. To assess the results of early intervention in patients with infantile idiopathic scoliosis. 2. To determine prognostic factors

Design: Retrospective cohort study

Subjects: 16 consecutive patients with infantile idiopathic scoliosis who have completed a serial casting programme

Outcome measures: Curve progression, rib asymmetry and the occurrence of surgery

Results Of 16 patients 6 were male, 5 had plagiocephaly and there were 9 left sided curves. The size of the curve of all except one patient improved by casting – 4 curves resolved completely and a further 4 improved by more than 50%. Sex, the presence of plagiocephaly and the size of the curve did not influence outcome. Rib asymmetry was a negative prognostic sign. Early treatment was associated with a significantly better outcome. One child has had surgical treatment.

Conclusions Most children with infantile idiopathic scoliosis can be improved by serial casting.

Rib asymmetry is confirmed as a negative prognostic sign. Early treatment gives better results.