Evaluation of postoperative residual spinal deformity and patient outcome in idiopathic scoliosis patients in Japan using the scoliosis research society outcomes instrument.

STUDY DESIGN: This study clarifies the correlation between the components of the Scoliosis Research Society Outcomes Instrument (SRS-24) and the radiographic parameters after surgery in Japanese idiopathic scoliosis patients.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the correlation between the magnitude of back deformity after scoliosis surgery and the components of the SRS-24.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Patient outcomes for Japanese scoliosis patients using the SRS-24 have not been fully investigated.

METHODS: Idiopathic scoliosis patients (n = 81) who were treated with surgery and followed up for more than 2 years were evaluated. Radiographic examination included Cobb angle, rotation angle of apical vertebrae, and translation of the C7 vertebra from the center sacral line on the coronal plane. In addition, the score of one new question regarding postoperative scar was investigated and compared with that of the individual SRS-24 domains.

RESULTS: A comparison of the SRS-24 and radiographic results revealed a significant inverse correlation between total pain and the postoperative correction of the rotation angle in the thoracic curve (rs = 0.27; P < 0.05). General self-image was inversely correlated with the Cobb angle (rs = -0.23; P < 0.05) and the rotation angle (rs = -0.30; P < 0.01) in the thoracic curve. Self-image after surgery was positively correlated with the correction degree of the thoracic Cobb angle (rs = 0.27; P < 0.05); 60% of patients had some concerns regarding postoperative scar, and the concerned patients demonstrated significantly lower scores in the pain and general self-image domains (P < 0.05) than the unconcerned patients did.

CONCLUSION: Patients with a greater Cobb angle or rotation angle in the thoracic curve had a negative self-image. Self-image improved after surgery by greater correction of the thoracic Cobb angle. Thoracic scoliotic deformity with prominence should be substantially reduced by the surgical treatment to improve satisfaction rates and self-image regarding back appearance. Additionally, physicians should pay more attention to patients' concern regarding their postoperative scars to obtain better outcomes.