Progression of untreated mild thoracic Scheuermann's kyphosis - Radiographic and functional assessment after mean follow-up of 46 years

Background: There is no data available on the radiographic development of the Scheuermann's deformity. Our purpose was to investigate radiographic deformity progression and the relation between kyphosis progression and clinical outcome in patients with untreated Scheuermann's kyphosis. Methods: Thoracic kyphosis (Th4-Th12) was measured from standing lateral radiographs in 19 patients at baseline and after mean 46-year follow-up. Mean age at baseline was 19.2 and at follow-up 64.7 years. At follow-up, height, weight, hand grip strength, and hamstring tightness were measured, and sit-tostand and walking tests were performed. Additionally general health and quality of life questionnaires were administered. Results: The mean thoracic kyphosis increased from 46 degrees (range 25 degrees-78 degrees) at baseline to 60 degrees (34 degrees-82 degrees) (p < 0.001) at follow-up. Mean of the vertebrae wedge increased from 8.8 degrees to 9.9 degrees (p = 0.046). There was no correlation between extent of kyphosis progression and function at follow-up. Conclusions: Among patients with Scheuermann's disease the degree of radiographic deformity progressed slightly during long-term follow-up. Progression did not predict symptoms. (C) 2017 The Japanese Orthopaedic Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.