Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity, and a subset of patients undergo surgical correction during adolescence, most commonly posterior spinal fusion (PSF). Although surgical treatment improves deformity and quality of life in the short and mid-term, its long-term impact on functional status in adulthood remains insufficiently understood.
This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate long-term outcomes in adults aged 25-40 years who underwent surgical treatment for AIS, compared with non-operated individuals with scoliosis and healthy controls. The study will assess limitations in daily functioning, musculoskeletal and respiratory function, pain, and compensatory mechanisms using standardized clinical measurements and questionnaires.
The findings are expected to provide insight into long-term functional consequences of AIS and support the development of targeted physiotherapy and preventive strategies for adults treated for scoliosis during adolescence.
Female, age 25-40
AIS diagnosed before age 18 (Cobb angle >35°)
Operated group: PSF, 10-25 years post-surgery
Informed consent
Surgery other than PSF
Surgery performed in adulthood
Polish patients
Case-control
Retrospective
Not listed
ICF-Based Functional Limitations Questionnaire Total Score
Author-developed questionnaire based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), assessing body functions, activities, participation, and environmental factors. Higher total scores indicate greater disability.
SRS-22 Total Score
Quality of life assessed using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire. The questionnaire contains 22 items across five domains (function/activity, pain, self-image/appearance, mental health, and satisfaction with management), each scored from 1 to 5. Mean domain scores and the total mean score range from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating better function and higher quality of life.
Pain Intensity by Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
Pain severity assessed on a 0 to 10 scale. Higher scores indicate greater pain intensity.
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC % Predicted)
Pulmonary function assessed by spirometry. Higher values indicate better respiratory function.
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1 % Predicted)
Spirometry measure of expiratory volume in one second. Higher values indicate better pulmonary function.
Chest Expansion
Difference between maximal inhalation and exhalation chest circumference, reported in centimeters.
Cervical Rotation Range of Motion
Passive cervical rotation measured in degrees.
Peripheral Joint Range of Motion
Shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle range of motion measured in degrees.
Limb Length Discrepancy
Difference between lower limb lengths, reported in centimeters.
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