Researchers identify bone-forming cells as driver of scoliosis caused by NF1. Blocking RAS-MAPK signaling pathway with medications halts progression of spinal deformity in genetically engineered mouse model.
Researchers explore the benefits of nucleic acid aptamers in targeted therapies for bone tissue regeneration, revealing their potential in managing orthopedic conditions. Aptamers can modulate key molecular pathways involved in bone repair, advancing the standard of care for fractures and various types of bone diseases.
Researchers assess ligament maturation and movement impact on scoliotic conditions, providing new insights into the structural hallmarks of embryonic spinal ligaments. The study aims to identify potential connections between embryonic movement and spinal deformities in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Researchers used a premature aging mouse model to study the effects of age and sex on osteocyte networks and bone structure. Aged PolgA mice showed accelerated skeletal aging, reduced osteocyte connectivity, and increased frailty, with males exhibiting more pronounced changes.
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Researchers from SGH and NNI found side-to-side differences in the corticoreticular pathway of patients with AIS, which may lead to better diagnosis and treatment options. The study's findings suggest that scoliosis is fundamentally related to brain and spinal cord interactions.
Researchers identified rare variants in the SLC6A9 gene linked to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), disrupting glycine uptake and leading to aberrant glycinergic neurotransmission. The study suggests sodium benzoate as a potential preventive therapy, paving the way for targeted treatments and personalized medicine.
A retrospective cohort study found that Black, lower SES, and publicly insured teens are at higher risk of major complications after scoliosis surgery. These disparities also affect pre-operative care, including rates of brace prescription and second opinions.
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A multidisciplinary team of UC students developed a new understanding of spinal column formation and reengineered the process in mutant zebrafish. This breakthrough could lead to possible treatments for scoliosis in humans.
A Michigan Medicine study found that patients who received preoperative education on opioid risks and nonopioid pain management options consumed significantly less oxycodone, with only 16 doses used despite similar pain scores. The results suggest a multimodal approach to managing pain can reduce harm and prevent substance use disorders.
A new Michigan Medicine study found that for children with a pelvic tilt and lower lumbar spine tilt of fewer than 10 degrees, the pelvis did not need to be included when inserting growing rods. This could help avoid painful complications such as skin breakdown and infection.
A new study suggests that combining two drugs can reduce postoperative opioid use and side effects in adolescents with scoliosis. The combination of intrathecal morphine and oral gabapentin provides more effective pain control, resulting in fewer side effects and lower narcotic consumption.
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A study developed a genetic risk score to predict adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) onset and severity. The score may help identify children at risk who could benefit from preventive treatments.
Researchers discovered that certain gene pairs are essential for healthy spine development in zebrafish, which can provide insights into human congenital scoliosis. The findings suggest that separating these genes leads to disease development under environmental stress.
A retrospective study from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that vertebral body tethering (VBT) is a promising alternative to posterior spinal fusion (PSF) for treating scoliosis in pediatric patients with growth remaining. VBT yields a high success rate, preserving mobility and correcting curves in 74% of patients.
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Researchers have designed a new X-ray classification system for adult idiopathic scoliosis, providing a more universal and standard assessment of the condition. The three-component method maintains existing curve types while introducing assessments of global alignment and lumbosacral curve, improving treatment options for older patients.
Researchers have identified patterns of spinal curvature in younger children that may develop into scoliosis by adolescence. The study suggests that the shape of a person's sagittal profile can be a leading cause of scoliosis, and may eventually guide early interventions for children at risk.
A new study suggests that surgery is a viable option for adults with scoliosis, but nonoperative treatments can also be effective. The extent of disability was found to be the most important factor in deciding whether to operate, with patients who had adequate quality-of-life benefiting from nonoperative treatment.
A new study links scoliosis to the body's inability to utilize the essential dietary mineral manganese. Children with severe scoliosis are twice as likely to carry a gene variant that makes it hard for their cells to take in and use manganese, which is required for growing bones and cartilage.
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A new form of Chest Wall Deformity has been discovered in patients with mild scoliosis and without it, characterized by rib humps mimicking scoliosis. Long-term observations are necessary to draw a final conclusion on prognosis.
A study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that scoliosis surgery significantly improves the quality of life for children with severe cerebral palsy and their caregivers. The procedure reduces spinal curvature and leads to long-term gains in personal care, positioning, and comfort.
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 years. Routine screening may not provide sufficient benefits to outweigh potential harms.
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A new study shows that specialized physical therapy exercises can improve the curve of the spine, muscle endurance and quality of life in teens with scoliosis. Researchers advocate for conservative management to be added to standard care.
A look-back study suggests that a major operation to fuse the spines of children with rare, early-onset scoliosis can be eliminated in many cases. In the study, 26 out of 30 patients who opted out of the final fusion procedure had their spines stay straight over three to seven years of follow-up.
Researchers found that repairing mutated cilia genes restored cerebrospinal fluid flow and prevented spinal curves from developing in zebrafish. If translatable to humans, the study could lead to a non-surgical approach for treating idiopathic scoliosis.
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A genetic test for adolescents with scoliosis can now predict worsening curves, guiding treatment decisions. The study reveals an overactive gene linked to scoliosis, providing insights into its development and potential prevention methods.
A new study found that adolescent scoliosis patients who received regular monitoring of their brace wear had less spinal progression and were less likely to require surgery. Patients who wore their braces for an average of 13.8 hours per day showed a 59% success rate in preventing curve progression.
A team of experts is working on developing a dynamic spine brace that can modulate corrective forces while allowing users to perform everyday activities. The new design aims to improve the quality of life for children with scoliosis, which affects 2-3% of adolescents each year.
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A new wound closure technique has been shown to significantly reduce complication rates in patients with non-idiopathic scoliosis undergoing spinal fusion surgery. The multilayered flap closure method eliminates 'dead space' and creates a better barrier, resulting in a 0% complication rate in patients who received the novel technique.
Researchers have identified a gene associated with susceptibility to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The BNC2 gene is linked to increased expression of protein BNC2, which regulates YY1. Studies found that the gene variation leads to higher BNC2 production in genes with the variant, contributing to the development of scoliosis.
A new study suggests Richard III kept his severe scoliosis hidden until his death in 1485, controlled by the king's body image and posthumous reputation. The treatment of his dead body after the Battle of Bosworth is linked to his later historical and literary reputation as 'Crookback Richard'.
Researchers at NYU Langone found that adolescent patients who undergo high-volume scoliosis surgery have significantly lower reoperation rates compared to those with low-volume surgeons. The study suggests that experienced spine surgeons can reduce complications and need for revision surgeries.
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A variation in the POC5 gene was found to be associated with familial scoliosis in a large French family study. The gene encodes for a centrosomal protein involved in microtubule-organising centres and cellular polarity, leading to rotational deformations similar to those observed in scoliosis patients.
Children with rare mutations in fibrillin-1 and fibrillin-2 genes are four times more likely to develop severe scoliosis than peers with normal versions. Drugs blocking a major growth pathway may prevent scoliosis in affected children.
Researchers have created a 3D representation of Richard III's spine, revealing a severe scoliosis with a 'spiral' shape and a pronounced right-sided curve. The model shows how the condition would have affected his appearance, with a short torso and higher right shoulder.
Researchers analyzed King Richard III's remains to determine the extent of his scoliosis, a condition characterized by a curved spine. The study found that Richard's condition would have had a small impact on his appearance and likely didn't affect his ability to exercise.
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A multi-center study found that wearing back braces significantly reduced the risk of curve progression and the need for surgery in children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Patients who wore a brace more than 13 hours per day achieved success rates of 90-93%.
A new NIH study found that bracing significantly reduces the risk of curve progression and the need for surgery in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Wearing a brace for more than 13 hours per day is associated with success rates of 90-93 percent.
Researchers have identified a gene, GPR126, linked to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) across Asian and Caucasian populations. The study reveals that the gene is involved in spinal growth during childhood.
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A new study demonstrates that a back brace with a tiny heat sensor can measure how long it is worn, leading to improved compliance rates among children. The Thermobrace system shows promising results in tracking brace wear and fostering better patient-physician relationships.
A new study shows that magnetically-controlled growing rods can treat scoliosis in children without the need for repeated invasive surgery. The non-invasive procedure, called MCGR, allows for frequent outpatient distractions and has been shown to be effective and safe.
Researchers found that modern spinal fusion techniques do not cause significant damage to the spine just below the fused discs, contrary to previous beliefs. Patients who underwent surgery showed good functional scores, balance maintenance, and minimal lower back pain ten years post-operatively.
Surgeons at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center combined three innovative minimally invasive spine surgery procedures to correct spinal curvature in adults. The procedures involved accessing damaged disc material, replacing it with spacers filled with bone and a protein that promotes fusion.
Researchers have discovered the CHD7 gene, which underlies scoliosis, a condition characterized by C- and S-shaped curves. The study's findings suggest that a defect in the gene leads to reduced production of the CHD7 protein, correlating with the onset of scoliosis.
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A study published in Neurology found that daily steroid treatments increased the walking time of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy by 3.3 years and reduced the incidence of scoliosis. However, treatment was associated with a higher risk of vertebral and leg fractures.
A study of 276 adolescents found overweight teens with scoliosis experienced worsening curvatures despite bracing, with over half requiring surgery. The Hopkins team recommends considering weight in treatment decisions for scoliosis.
A koala scoliosis study reveals that the condition takes different forms in marsupials compared to humans. The research, conducted by Emily Milbourne, aims to describe the normal anatomy of koalas and investigate the causes of scoliotic animals.