- Discussion:
- vital capacity < 75% (of predicted values) is seen in
thoracic curves > 75 deg;
- significant reductions in pulmonary function are seen in curves > 80 deg;
- although some effect on pulmonary function can be seen at 60 deg, significant compromise is
not seen until the curve is > 90 deg;
- curves greater than 100 deg have total lung capacity of about 50% of normal;
- w/ curves between 100 - 140 deg, average vital capacity is 60%;
- restrictive lung disease and right sided heart failure become manifest at curves about 120 deg;
- Effect of Bracing: (see
bracing in scoliosis)
- application of brace results in sig reduction in vital capacity (14%), f(x) residual capacity (22%), & total lung capacity (12%);
- bracing will reduce lung function by 10 to 15%;
Changes in residual volume relative to vital capacity and total lung
capacity after arthrodesis of the spine in patients who have adolescent
idiopathic scoliosis.
Idiopathic scoliosis. Natural history.
SL Weinstein.
Spine. Vol 11. 1986. p 780-783.
