The Boston Brace and TriaC systems.

PURPOSE: This review article will discuss the current design and fabrication principles of the Boston Brace and TriaC systems for the conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. The Boston Brace describes the use of a low profile orthosis within a team atmosphere. The TriaC, a tension-based system, allows maintenance of the motion segment.

METHODS

Review current clinical research as well as direct clinical experience.

RESULTS

Studies of the Boston Brace System have lead to alterations in sagittal plane design and thoracic vector placements. Involvement of the clinical team and educating the family has remained a common denominator. The Boston Brace has always been described as dynamic, for it allowed freedom of movement away from the corrective forces since the superstructure was removed. Also, compliance was thought to improve with its low profile design. TriaC is also dynamic, in that the thoracic and lumbar sections can move independent of each other. This design allows the forces to be in constant contact, thereby maintaining the tension regardless of body position.

CONCLUSION

Patient selection is vital to the success of both systems. The clinical team, Orthotist skill, patient education, and scheduled follow up are the basic elements of a scoliosis program.