A comprehensive review of thoracic deformity parameters in scoliosis.

Abstract

The combined spine and rib cage deformity in scoliosis is best described as a thoracic deformity, and recent advances in imaging have enabled better definition of three-dimensional (3D) deformity of the thorax in scoliosis. However, a comprehensive report that summarizes the published thorax deformity quantification parameter studies is lacking in the orthopaedic literature. An extensive literature review on the quantification of thorax deformity was performed, and a total of 25 thorax deformity parameters were compiled into eight independent categories based on their similarities of deformity assessment. This review serves as the first comprehensive summary of radiographic and CT-based thorax deformity quantification measures. Future work on the complex relationships between spine and ribcage deformity and the relationship with pulmonary function could help improve clinical interventions for scoliosis treatment.