Investigation of Upper Extremity Functionality in Adolescent Patients with Idiopathic Scoliosis Undergoing Scoliosis Surgery

Abstract

INTRODUCTION[|]The effect of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) on shoulder dysfunction and upper limb functionality is still not poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of AIS on upper extremity functionality and quality of life.[¤]METHODS[|]Thirty-seven patients who had undergone surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis participated in this study. Upper extremity functionality was evaluated using Turkish version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH-T) questionnaire, hand-grip strength Jamar hand dynamometer, and health-related quality of life was assessed using SF-36, and Scoliosis Research Society-22r Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire (SRS-22).[¤]RESULTS[|]The mean age of the patients was 17.08+-2.96 years and the mean follow-up period was 34.44+-25.37 months. The average DASH-T score was found 14.79+-17.35. Patients quality of life scores was good level. The average right hand grip strength was 19.84+-8.89 kg while left hand grip strength was 18.97+-8.01 kg. There was no statistically significant difference between right and left hand grip strength (p=0.67). There was a moderate negative correlation with DASH-T and SRS-22 pain (r=-0.46, p=0.01) and SF-36 pain (r=0.54, p=0.01), and a weak positive correlation with SF-36 social function (r=-0.38, p=0.03). There was no statistically significant relationship between Cobb angle (Δ) and SRS-22, SF-36, DASH-T and hand grip strength.[¤]DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION[|]Further studies may examine the effects of surgery on upper extremity functionality, hand-grip strength, and quality of life in patients with AIS using both objective and patient-reported assessment tools.[¤]

Keywords

• adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
• dash-t; srs-22.