Standardization of dynamic RX for preoperative planning in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

OBJECTIVE: To compare X-rays usually performed in supine with lateralization with those in lateral decubitus with fulcrum at the apex of the primary curve caused by cushion, in order to monitor the achievement of improvement patterns of correction in preestablished deformities for the preoperative surgical planning. METHODS: Comparison of radiographic studies in the preoperative supine with lateralization and lateral decubitus with cushion performing fulcrum at the apex of the major curve in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. RESULTS: Curves varied in AP between 76° e 40° and were corrected in supine with lateralization to the average of 21° observing that when carried out with fulcrum with cushion in lateral decubitus the curves were corrected to 15° on average with higher discrepancy in values among the most rigid curves. CONCLUSIONS: It was verified that on flexible curves the cushions did not produce satisfactory corrections in primary curves. In more rigid curves and in collaborative patients, greater effectiveness on the correction of deformity in main curves was obtained with cushions producing local fulcrum for a better preoperative planning on correction of deformities.