Purpose of the study: The effect of idiopathic scoliosis surgery on walking capacity has rare been studied. Results published in the literature have been discordant: reduced velocity, step rate and stride length for Lenke et al; no change for Engsber et al. We conducted a prospective study to analyze gait parameters after surgery for idiopathic scoliosis.

Material and methods: This study was conducted in 46 patients who underwent surgery for idiopathic scoliosis. Mean age was 15 years (range 12–22). Mean angle was 56° (range 40–94°). A posterior approach was used for reduction and fusion in all patients. Mean postoperative angle was 20° (range 8–64°). There were no neurological, mechanical or infectious complications. Gait analysis was performed with a locometer to record spatial and temporal gait parameters preoperatively then postoperatively at 10 days, and 3, 6, and 12 months. ANOVA was performed.

Results: Preoperatively, mean±SD values were: velocity: 1.48±0.14 m/s; step rate: 132±9 steps/min; stride length 67±6.7 cm; balancing time: 0.39±0.03 s; double-stance time 0.07±0.03 s. These values were lower than reported for health adults using the same measurement instrument. All parameters were modified immediately after surgery (p< 0.05) but there was no significant difference between the pre- and postoperative values at 3, 6, and 12 months.

Conclusion: Corrective fusion via a posterior approach for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis does not affect spatial and temporal gait parameters.