title: Lateral electrical surface stimulation in idiopathic scoliosis. Experience in two private practices.
abstract: One hundred twenty-six patients with idiopathic scoliosis were treated by lateral electrical surface stimulation. Of these, 39 patients satisfied a strict set of protocols and were evaluated as a group. In this subgroup, curves averaged 28 degrees (range, 20-38 degrees). Thirty-eight percent exhibited initial curves greater than 30 degrees. Thirty percent of patients had a Risser sign of 0. Follow-up was from 6 months to 6 years. Progression was greater than 5 degrees in 48% and greater than 10 degrees in 35%. The final curve was greater than 40 degrees in 30%. Twenty-eight required fusion. Compared with natural history studies, these results are acceptable, and the authors continue to offer lateral electrical surface stimulation as a method of nonoperative care for progressive idiopathic scoliosis.
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Swank
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Brown
authors.forename: M V
authors.initials: MV
authors.lastname: Jennings
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Conradi
mesh_terms: D001846:Bone Development; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*