US EPA

6962063 

Journal Article 

Scoliosis correction with the Wilmington-brace 

Weber, M; Birnbaum, K; Weber, M; Niethard, FU; , 

1999 

1 

Zeitschrift für Orthopädie und ihre Grenzgebiete
ISSN: 0044-3220
EISSN: 1438-941X 

GEORG THIEME VERLAG KG 

STUTTGART 

173-180 

10408063 

WOS:000080423300025 

Question: As part of our study, the effectiveness and patient's acceptance of the Wilmington-brace is to be evaluated. The effectiveness can be documented with the help of the primary correction achieved, especially in light of the fact, that the primary correction and the longterm results are directly dependant upon one another.Material and method: We examined a total of 52 patients with an idiopathic scoliosis treated in a thermoplast brace. The group consisted of 38 female and 14 male patients (average age 11.6 years). The angulation was meas ured with the help of the Cobb-angle and the rotation with the method described by Nash and Moe. The skeletal age was classified according to Risser's-sign. The angle determinations were carried out at three separate points in time - at first presentation, prior to bracing and four to six weeks following bracing.Results: The patients presented with an average angulation of 31 degrees. The average correction achieved in the Wilmington-brace was 41%. This corresponds to a correction of 13 degrees. The best primary correction (45%) was obtained in the thoracolumbar spine. Those patients with the smallest deformity at the onset of treatment showed the best results. The scoliosis with a large primary deformity and a marked rotation of the vertebral bodies responded poorly to correction. Advanced age or skeletal maturity were also limiting factors. Physical therapy had a positive influence on the amount of primary correction obtained.Clinical relevance: The Wilmington-brace (thermoplast) allows for a good primary correction of idiopathic scoliosis. The simplicity of application and the low production costs are also positive attributes.