The Impact of Surgical Correction of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Using Posterior Spinal Fusion on Selected Radiological Parameters and Respiratory Function.

INTRODUCTION

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) may impair pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength. This study evaluated the effects of posterior spinal fusion (PSF) on spinal parameters, lung function, and respiratory muscle strength in AIS patients.

METHODS

Fifteen AIS patients (mean age 15.3 ± 1.72 years) underwent PSF with instrumentation. Assessments were performed preoperatively, on postoperative day 7, and 3 months after surgery. Radiological parameters, pulmonary function (VC, FEV1, PEF) and respiratory muscle strength (PImax, PEmax) were also measured.

RESULTS

PSF significantly improved spinal alignment. On postoperative day 7, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength decreased significantly. At 3 months, all respiratory parameters improved compared with day 7. FEV1 and respiratory muscle strength returned to baseline, whereas VC remained lower and PEF exceeded preoperative values.

CONCLUSIONS

PSF effectively corrects spinal deformity in AIS. Although respiratory function declines early after surgery, substantial recovery occurs within 3 months, without evidence of persistent respiratory impairment.