A novel spinal brace in management of scoliosis due to cerebral palsy. Radiological and subjective clinical results after at least one year of treatment

Background Severe scoliosis in patients with cerebral palsy (CP) causes difficulty in sitting balance and creates increased nursing demands. Surgical stabilization has proven to be a valuable method to stop the progression of scoliosis [1]. However, the complication rate after such surgery is substantial[2]. Additionally, many patients with quadriplegia and large curvatures of the spine have impaired general health, epilepsy and reduced respiratory capacity, making them poor candidates for major surgery like spine fusion. Therefore, other treatment alternatives should be available. We have recently developed a spinal brace named Dynamic Spinal Brace (DSB), which is a custom-molded, polycarbonate orthosis characterized by lightness and flexibility. Unlike the other underarm orthoses, DSB does not fix the pelvic girdle rigidly and, thus, potentially contributes to good compliance with bracing.