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Improved QOL for neuromuscular scoliosis patients does not correlate to parents
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Researchers analyzed the effects of correctional surgery on the quality of life in children with neuromuscular scoliosis, as well as the effects on patients’ parents’ quality-of-life outcomes.
Fifty-eight patients who underwent correctional surgery for progressive neuromuscular scoliosis between 2008 and 2011 and their parents were enrolled in the retrospective study. All participants were evaluated preoperatively using the Muscular Dystrophy Spine Questionnaire (MDSQ) and SF-36 and again at 3 months and 1 year postoperatively. Mean follow-up was 38.4 months.
According to the researchers, the Cobb angle was 61.5° preoperatively, 39° immediately postoperatively and 40° at the final follow-up.
Significant improvements were observed in the Cobb angle, pelvic obliquity and lumbar lordosis after surgery (P < .001), according to the researchers. Additionally, patients experienced significant improvements in sitting-related areas, including the ability to sit comfortably, change weight in wheelchair and sit at the table for a meal, after undergoing operative treatment. SF-36 scores also showed significant postoperative improvement for the patients in terms of bodily pain and social functioning.
However, none of the SF-36 scales (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional or mental health) were improved at any point in follow-up for the patients’ parents, according to the researchers.
The researchers concluded the improved sitting-balance and quality-of-life (QoL) scores for patients did not lead to improved parent QOL. – by Robert Linnehan
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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