THE RIB-VERTEBRA ANGLE IN THE EARLY DIAGNOSIS BETWEEN RESOLVING AND PROGRESSIVE INFANTILE SCOLIOSIS

Abstract

1. A study of serial radiographs of 138 children with infantile scoliosis starting under the age of two years has resulted in a method of early differentiation between resolving and progressive curves. 2. The method involves careful measurement of the rib-vertebra angles at the apex of the curve and observation of the relationship of the head of the rib to the body of the vertebra as seen in antero-posterior radiographs. 3. The influence of the infantile growth spurt upon progressive curves is examined and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment is stressed.