Objective: To study the relationship between the fulcrum bending flexibility (FBF) and correction rate (CR) of adult idiopathic scoliosis, and to explore the ability of FBF to assess the correction effect in relation to fulcrum bending flexibility.
Methods: 69 patients with adult idiopathic scoliosis with structural curves at thoracic or lumbarthoracic segments, 16 males and 53 females, aged 26.5 (19 - 53) were treated by pedicle screws instrumentation. Pre-operative standing and fulcrum bending films and postoperative standing X-ray film were taken. Cobb angle was measured. The data underwent regression analysis with the software SPSS 10.0.
Results: A regression formula was established: CR = 0.213 + 0.768 x FBF with P < 0.01.
Conclusion: A definite linear relation exists between the FBF and CR of adult idiopathic scoliosis. By using the formula in proper samples, the effects of new instrumentation or correction technique can be objectively assessed.