Concept and treatment outcomes of dynamic spinal brace for scoliosis in cerebral palsy

Abstract

We developed a novel device, dynamic spinal brace (DSB), with the basic concept of automatic correction by maximizing posture control. Herein, we report the structure of the DSB and preliminary treatment outcomes for scoliosis in patients with cerebral palsy. The study cohort comprised 219 patients with cerebral palsy treated for scoliosis with Cobb angle of at least 20° and follow-up of more than 3 years under the DSB. Cobb angle, trunk shift, and pelvic obliquity were assessed by semi-sitting radiography, and a questionnaire on daily lifestyle was collected. The immediate correction of these parameters by wearing DSB was demonstrated. In those who aged older than 15 years, the annual progression was 1.0°, and trunk shift was not deteriorated statistically. The questionnaire survey indicated that the DSB led to improvements in QOL and caregiving, and only 3.5% of the patients discontinued DSB because of intolerance. However, we could not find clear evidence that DSB affects the natural history of scoliosis in children with cerebral palsy.