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STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of preoperative Halo-gravity traction (HGT) in the treatment of severe focal kyphosis in the upper thoracic spine (UTS), and to propose the indications that HGT could serve as an alternative for three-column osteotomy (3CO) among these patients. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The HGT has been proven to be effective for severe kyphoscoliosis secondary to multiple etiologies. However, the safety and efficacy of HGT in severe focal kyphosis in UTS was still unclear. METHODS Patients with focal kyphosis in UTS undergoing HGT and without 3CO operation were reviewed. The sagittal focal kyphosis was measured at pre-, posttraction, and postoperation. The neurologic function at pretraction, posttraction, and postoperation were assessed according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grading. The complications during HGT, operation, and follow-up were recorded. The comparison between pretraction and posttraction was performed using paired samples t test. RESULTS A total of 19 patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 13.2 ± 5.8 years. The average duration of HGT was 62.6 ± 8.4 days, during which the average kyphosis decreased from 95.3 ± 16.4° to 64.1 ± 19.2° (P

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective study. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of Global Alignment and Proportion (GAP) score to predict the occurrence of adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) after fusion surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The recently developed GAP score was applied to predict postoperative complications for adult spinal deformity, as well as to facilitate future outcome-based research on optimal treatment for various spinal conditions. However, it remains unclear whether reconstruction of alignment according to GAP score can reduce the ASD rates. METHODS This study retrospectively reviewed 126 consecutive patients who had undergone lumbar fusion and had been followed over 2 years. Pre- and postoperative radiographs and MRI were analyzed for ASD. GAP scores were calculated based on the early postoperative spinopelvic parameters. Cochran-Armitage test of trend was performed to investigate the association between GAP score and the occurrence of ASD. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to analyze the predictive accuracy of the GAP score for ASD. RESULTS Radiographical ASD (R-ASD) and symptomatic ASD (S-ASD) were diagnosed in 44 (34.9%) patients and in 13 (10.3%) patients, respectively. The patients with a proportioned spinopelvic state according to the GAP score had significantly lower rates of ASD (R-ASD and S-ASD) or S-ASD than those with a moderately or severely disproportioned spinopelvic state. The area under curve for the GAP score predicting ASD and S-ASD was 0.691 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.596∼0.785, P

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective study. OBJECTIVE To determine the significance of postoperative upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) horizontalization on the evolution of proximal compensatory curve after hemivertebra resection and short fusion in young patients with lumbosacral hemivertebra (LSHV). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Postoperative compensatory curve progression (CCP) is an undesired complication in patients undergoing spinal fusion. Posterior-only hemivertebra resection and short fusion has gradually become a preferred treatment for young patients with LSHV. Postoperative UIV horizontalization might play an important role in the behavior of compensatory curve after surgery. METHODS This study reviewed a consecutive series of patients undergoing posterior-only LSHV resection and short fusion from August 2006 to June 2016. The radiographic parameters were measured at preoperation, immediately postoperation, and the last follow-up. Based on the immediately postoperative UIV tilt, patients were divided into horizontal group (UIV tilt

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective and comparative study. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the difference of DNA methylation in protocadherin10 (PCDH10) genes between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and normal controls, and to assess the association between DNA methylation and the etiology of AIS. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The PCDH10 gene showed abnormal expression in AIS. However, the mechanism was still unclear. DNA methylation was an important epigenetic mechanism at the interface between genetics and environmental phenotype, seeming to be a suitable epigenetic mark for the abnormal expression of PCDH10 in AIS. METHODS There were 50 AIS patients and 50 healthy controls included in the study. The peripheral blood sample of each participant was taken. The pyrosequencing assay was used to assess the methylation status of PCDH10 promoter and real time PCR (RT-PCR) was used to detect the PCDH10 gene expression. The comparison analysis was performed using independent t test and 2-tailed Pearson coefficients was calculated for the correlation analysis. RESULTS The average methylation level was 4.32 ± 0.73 in AIS patients and 3.14 ± 0.97 in healthy controls (P

STUDY DESIGN A genetic case-control study. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether the variants in BOC, SEC16B, and SH2D1B are sex-specifically and functionally associated with the susceptibility of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in Chinese Han population. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA A recent genome-wide association study identified three female-specific susceptibility loci of AIS in Japanese population. However, the association of these genes with AIS in other populations remains unclear. Further investigation of the functional role of the three genes was warranted. METHODS SNPs rs73235136, rs545608, and rs142502288 were genotyped in 1599 AIS patients and 2985 controls. Paraspinal muscle collected from 40 AIS and 30 lumber disc herniation patients during surgical interventions was used for gene expression analysis. The difference regarding genotype and allele frequency between patients and controls was analyzed by chi-square analysis. Expression of BOC and SEC16B was compared between AIS and lumber disc herniation patients by the Student t test. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between gene expression level and clinical phenotypes. RESULTS SNPs rs73235136 of BOC and rs545608 of SEC16B were found to be remarkably associated with AIS only in females. Allele C of rs73235136 and allele G of rs545608 could significantly add to the risk of female AIS patients, with an odds ratio of 1.087 and 1.033, respectively. However, there was no significant difference between the male patients and controls regarding genotype or allele frequency of rs73235136 and rs545608. No polymorphism at rs142502288 was detected in either patients or controls, and all the subjects had genotype of AA. Moreover, tissue expression of BOC and SEC16B was significantly lower in AIS patients compared with controls. BOC expression was positively associated with bone mineral contents, and expression of SEC16B was negatively correlated with curve severity in AIS patients. CONCLUSION Female-specific variants in BOC and SEC16B were associated with AIS. Expression of BOC and SEC16B was significantly lower in AIS patients. The role of BOC and SEC16B in the development of AIS is worthy of further investigation.Level of Evidence: 3.

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective cross-sectional study. OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine whether the sacroiliac (SI) joint motion correlated to pelvic incidence (PI) change from standing to supine position in patients with degenerative spinal diseases. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA PI was found an unstable parameter after adolescence as the fixed nature of PI was challenged by several studies. The SI joint has been shown to have some motion, age-related degenerative changes of cartilage and SI ligaments contribute to SI joint instability. METHODS The study contains both specimen study and radiographic study. One human specimen was acquired, on which PI was measured with different sacrum-ilium positions. In radiographic study, patients with old thoracolumbar fracture, lumbar disc herniation, stenosis, and spondylolisthesis were included. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients were also included as control group. PI was measured on standing x-rays and scanogram of computed tomography images in supine position. RESULTS Specimen study result revealed that SI motion would lead to the change of PI with fixed pelvic thickness. In radiographic study, 101 patients with different etiology and 30 AS patients were included. After stratifying into different age groups, standing PI was significantly larger than supine PI in each age groups (P = 0.002

A genetic association study.The aim of this study was to investigate whether rs1978060 of TBX1 gene was a susceptible locus of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in the Chinese Han population and to better define the functional role of TBX1 in the development and progression of AIS.A recent genome-wide association study reported a novel susceptible locus in TBX1 gene, which was associated with the development of AIS in the Japanese population. However, there is a paucity of knowledge concerning the functional role of TBX1 in the Chinese AIS population.The SNP rs1978060 was genotyped in 1725 female AIS patients and 2600 healthy controls. Paraspinal muscle samples were collected from 30 AIS patients and 26 age-matched congenital scoliosis (CS) patients for the analysis of tissue expression. The differences of genotype and allele distributions between the patients and the controls were calculated using the χ test. The Pearson correlation analysis was carried out to investigate the relation between the expression of the PAX1 gene and the curve severity.SNP rs1978060 was significantly associated with the susceptibility of AIS. Allele G of rs1978060 could significantly add to the risk of AIS with an odds ratio of 1.12. The tissue expression of TBX1 was obviously decreased in AIS patients. There was a remarkable correlation between the curve magnitude and the TBX1 expression (r = -0.519, P = 0.003).The association between TBX1 and the susceptibility of AIS was successfully replicated in the Chinese population. Moreover, rs1978060 may be a functional variant regulating the expression of TBX1. More studies were warranted to explore the functional role of TBX1 in the onset and progression of AIS.3.

Study design A prospective analysis. Objective To investigate whether the hyper-selective posterior fusion (upper instrumented vertebra [UIV] as the vertebra one level below the upper end vertebra [UEV], lower instrumented vertebra [LIV] as the lower end vertebra [LEV]) was applicable in posterior fusion of Lenke 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients and what could be the indication of hyper-selective fusion. Summary of background data The improper UIV selection in selective fusion could lead to progressive thoracic compensatory curve, shoulder imbalance, and even coronal imbalance. However, few studies analyzed the clinical outcome of hyper-selective fusion. Methods A prospective analysis of 80 patients with Lenke 5C AIS who underwent selective fusion was performed. According to the relationship between UEV and UIV, the patients were divided into UEV group (UIV = UEV) and UEV-1 group (UIV = UEV-1). Radiographic parameters and the incidence of postoperative proximal decompensation were compared. The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 scores were used to evaluate clinical outcomes between two groups. Results Thirteen patients (27%) in UEV group and six (18.75%) in UEV-1 group showed proximal decompensation during follow-up, and the incidence was equivalent (P = 0.280). Within the UEV-1 group, the patients with proximal decompensation showed similar Risser grade, baseline thoracic Cobb angle, and main Cobb angle (P = 0.611, 0.435, 0.708, respectively). However, the baseline L-T apical vertebral translation (AVT) ratio was significantly larger in patients with proximal decompensation (P = 0.028). Meanwhile, patients with proximal decompensation in UEV group showed significantly smaller preoperative UIV translation and lumbar AVT but similar postoperative UIV tilt. Conclusion Hyper-selective posterior fusion strategy could be performed in Lenke 5C patients with Risser more than grade 2 and with thoracic compensatory curve over 15°. The UIV in patients with small baseline thoracic curve, represented by larger baseline lumbar-thoracic AVT ratio, should be selected as UEV to prevent proximal decompensation. Level of evidence 4.

Study design Retrospective radiographical clinical study. Objective To investigate the incidence and risk factors of coronal imbalance (CI) after three-column osteotomy (3-CO) in patients with thoracolumbar congenital kyphoscoliosis (CKS). Summary of background data The incidence and risk factors of postoperative CI have been reported in adolescent idiopathic and degenerative lumbar scoliosis. However, limited data exists for patients with CKS after 3-CO. Methods We reviewed a consecutive series of patients with CKS who underwent posterior-only 3-CO. Coronal curve patterns were classified according to absolute C7 translation values into: Type A, C7 translation is less than 30 mm; Type B, C7 translation more than or equal to 30 mm and C7 plumb line (C7PL) shifted to the concave side of the main curve; and Type C, C7 translation more than or equal to 30 mm and C7PL shifted to the convex side. CI was defined as C7 translation on either side more than or equal to 30 mm. According to C7 translation at the latest follow-up, patients was subdivided into an imbalanced group and a balanced group. Results One-hundred-thirty patients (mean age, 17.7 ± 5.2 yr) were recruited. The mean follow-up was 41.3 ± 18.5 months. Twenty-six patients (20%) were identified as having CI at the latest follow-up. Compared with the balanced group, the imbalanced group had a larger proportion of preoperative Type C pattern, higher main curve correction, and greater lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) tilt before and after surgery. Multiple logistic regression showed that risk factors for CI were preoperative type C pattern, preoperative LIV tilt more than or equal to 23.5° and immediate postoperative LIV tilt more than or equal to 12.3°. Conclusion The incidence of CI in patients with CKS after 3-CO was 20%. A preoperative type C pattern, preoperative LIV tilt more than or equal to 23.5°, and immediate postoperative LIV tilt more than or equal to 12.3° were found to be associated with CI at the latest follow-up. Level of evidence 3.

Study design A prospective case-control study. Objectives To investigate whether the asymmetric changes are primary or secondary to spinal deformity. Summary of background data Previous study reported significantly decreased expression of Wnt/B-catenin pathway in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. To date, there is a lack of study investigating the relationship between differentially expressed Wnt/B-catenin pathway and the onset of the curve. Methods Paraspinal muscles were collected from 40 female AIS patients and 20 age-matched congenital scoliosis (CS) patients. For CS patients, the samples were collected from the concave side and the convex side at the apical region. For AIS patients, the samples were collected from the proximal bilateral sides of the spine in addition to the apical region. qPCR and western blot were used to determine the expression of LBX1, B-catenin, and PAX3, all of which are regulated by the Wnt/B-catenin pathway. The relative mRNA expression level between the concave and the convex side was performed with the Student t test. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between gene expression and the curve magnitude. Results AIS patients were found to have remarkably lower mRNA and protein expression of B-catenin, LBX1, and PAX3 in the concave side than in the convex side at the apical region. By contrast, at the proximal region, the mRNA expression of these three genes was comparable. Moreover, no significant difference regarding mRNA expression was found between the concave side and the convex side of CS patients. There was no remarkable correlation between the mRNA expression of the three genes and Cobb angle. Conclusion There exists remar kably asymmetric expression of Wnt/B-catenin pathway at the apical region of AIS, which however was comparable at the apical region of CS patients. Further investigation of Wnt/B-catenin signaling pathway may help reveal the etiology of AIS in future study. Level of evidence 4.

A retrospective study.To investigate the incidence, risk factors, and evolution of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in young children who underwent posterior hemivertebra resection and short fusion.PJK is an undesired, but common complication following posterior spinal fusion. However, there is a paucity of data on PJK in young children after posterior hemivertebra resection and short fusion.This study included 189 children who had undergone posterior hemivertebra resection and short fusion (≤4 vertebra) from January 2008 and May 2015 at a single institution. Medical records were reviewed and radiographic assessments were made preoperatively and throughout the follow-up period. Risk factors for PJK were evaluated by correlation analysis and logistic regression analysis.The mean age at surgery was 4.5 years (range, 3-10 yr) and the average follow-up was 48.4 months (range, 24-87 mo). Twenty-two (11.6%) patients experienced PJK. PJK was identified within 6 months after surgery in 21 cases (95%), and the most common type was ligamentous failure. In comparison with the non-PJK group, the PJK group had greater preoperative segmental kyphosis (26.9° vs. 16.7°, P 0.01), longer fusion levels (3.4 vs. 2.5, P 0.01), and larger postoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA; 18.9 vs. 8.6 mm, P 0.01). Preoperative segmental kyphosis30°(odds ratio, 4.426), and postoperative SVA of more than 20 mm (odds ratio, 3.580) were identified as independent risk factors for PJK. In PJK group, the average proximal junctional angle increased from 4.9° to 18.5° at 6 months postoperatively, but significantly decreased to 14.8° at final follow-up. Eleven patient received brace treatment, and no patients required revision surgery.Despite the incidence of PJK in 11.6% of young children undergoing posterior hemivertebra resection and short fusion, no significant deterioration of proximal junctional angle were found till the last follow-up. Its risk factors include preoperative segmental kyphosis, a larger postoperative SVA and ligamentous failure. Early detection and active management may be helpful for minimizing the progression of PJK.3.

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective matched-cohort comparative study. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the surgical results after the use of duet screw based satellite rods and bilateral satellite rods (S-RC) versus a standard two-rod construct (2-RC) across osteotomy sites in a matched cohort with Scheuermann kyphosis (SK). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Multiple Ponte osteotomies are frequently employed to correct SK via a posterior-only approach, with a 2-RC across the osteotomy sites. Whereas, correction rate and junction problems remain as the major concerns. METHODS This study reviewed a consecutive series of patients with SK who had undergone posterior-only correction with multilevel Ponte osteotomy between 2009 and 2014 and had been followed over 24 months. Twenty-two patients receiving placement with an S-RC with the use of duet screws were identified and closely matched with 22 patients with a 2-RC in terms of age, apex, and magnitude of kyphosis. Comparisons were made with regards to deformity magnitude, correction results, complications, and clinical outcomes between the two groups. RESULTS No significant difference was found between groups in preoperative patient's factors (age, gender, apex, magnitude of kyphosis, and SRS-22 scores) and surgical factors (blood loss, operation time, osteotomy levels, and fused levels). Compared with the 2-RC group, the S-RC group had higher correction rate (55.4% ± 7.5% vs. 46.2% ± 5.1%, P

A retrospective study.To evaluate radiographic and cosmetic outcomes after posterior-only cervicothoracic hemivertebra resection and instrumentation.Cervicothoracic hemivertebra is a rare congenital deformity. It locates between the mobile cervical spine and the fixed thoracic spine, leading to rapid curve progression, shoulder imbalance, fixed torticollis, and facial asymmetry.This study reviewed a consecutive series of 18 patients with cervicothoracic hemivertebra. All received posterior-only hemivertebra resection and instrumentation and had a minimum follow up of 2 years. Assessments on radiographic and cosmetic outcomes were based on changes in measurements of scoliosis, shoulder balance, neck tilt, head shift, and sagittal profiles.There were 24 hemivertebrae, consisting of 16 fully segmented and 8 semisegmented. Mean age at surgery was 9.5 ± 3.1 years, and mean follow up was 32 ± 10 months. Mean fusion segments were 4.8 ± 0.6 segments. Operation time averaged 208 ± 33 minutes, with an average blood loss of 384 ± 40 mL. Local scoliosis was corrected from 39 ± 5° to 16 ± 4° (P 0.001). The distal curve had a spontaneous correction of 41 ± 18%. With regards to shoulder balance, both T1 tilt and clavicle angle were significantly improved, with a correction rate of 55 ± 22% and 47 ± 32%, respectively. Accordingly, neck tilt was improved from 20 ± 7° to 11 ± 7°, and head shift from 22 ± 9 mm to 13 ± 8 mm. A remarkable pedicle screw malpositioning rate (20%) was observed, but no neurovascular injuries. One case developed with Horner syndrome, and another one had transient radicular pain on the right arm after surgery.For patients with congenital cervicothoracic scoliosis, posterior-only hemivertebra resection with instrumentation allows for excellent scoliosis correction and cosmetic improvement. Great care should be taken to reduce the rate of pedicle screw malpositioning.4.

A retrospective study.To investigate whether the mismatch between proximal junctional angle (PJA) and the proximal rod contouring contributed to the occurrence of postoperative proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in degenerative scoliosis.PJK is one of the complications in the treatment of degenerative scoliosis, the postoperative PI-LL mismatch and the increased rod stiffness are supposed to be the etiology of PJK. However, the impact of rod contouring on PJK has not been fully illustrated.A retrospective study was performed on 27 consecutive degenerative scoliosis patients (three males and 24 females) who underwent corrective surgery with more than 2-year follow-up. Radiographic parameters included proximal rod contouring angle (PRCA) and PJA at the three time-points. The subjects were divided into two groups: PJK group and non-PJK group with the definition of PJK as a PJA more than 10°. The mismatch between PRCA and post-op PJA, defined as the difference between PRCA and postop PJA of more than 5°, was then compared with PJK and non-PJK group.The patients' mean age was 60.48 ± 6.47 years old with a mean Cobb angle of 40.89 ± 14.33°. Twelve patients, with a mean PJA of 18.67 ± 5.31° at the last followup, were stratified into the PJK group, while the remaining 15 patients, with a mean PJA of 5.33 ± 2.47, were placed into the non-PJK group. A significant difference in the mismatch between post-op PJA and PRCA was observed between PJK and non-PJK group (8.83 ± 5.07° vs. 4.07 ± 2.91°, P = 0.005). Meanwhile the difference of mismatch between preop PJA and PRCA showed no statistical significance (5.16 ± 4.24° vs. 3.00 ± 2.48°, P = 0.109).Mismatch between rod contouring and postoperative proximal spinal curve may be a predisposed risk factor for PJK in degenerative scoliosis.4.

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective study. OBJECTIVE The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the hybrid growing rod (GR) technique for the treatment of young children with congenital scoliosis (CS). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Congenital vertebral anomalies within long-spanned kyphoscoliosis were difficult to be managed by either definitive spinal fusion or standard GR technique. Hybrid technique of one-stage posterior osteotomy with short fusion and GR distraction was proposed in previous studies. There is, however, paucity of data regarding its effectiveness. METHODS Thirteen patients (mean age, 5.4 ± 2.0 yr) who had undergone hybrid GR treatment were retrospectively reviewed, including 8 patients treated with single GR and 5 patients with dual GR. All of their radiographic data were measured, and surgical complications were recorded. RESULTS On average, the current cohort had 4.1 ± 1.7 lengthening procedures. After the index surgery, the major curve improved remarkably from 86.4° ± 11.9° to 37.3° ± 12.4° (P

An experimental study to investigate the role of enhanced central leptin activity in a bipedal mouse scoliosis model.To investigate the influence of enhanced central leptin activity on the development of scoliosis in mice, and to support Burwell's hypothesis that central leptin dysfunction is involved in the etiopathogenesis of idiopathic scoliosis.Significantly lower level of circulating leptin and higher level of soluble leptin receptor have been reported in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis compared with healthy adolescents, suggesting possible association between abnormal central leptin level and dysfunction.Amputation of forelimbs and tail was performed on 50 male C3H/HeJ mice at the age of 3 weeks. Then, the mice were randomly divided into 2 groups: Group A consisted of 25 mice treated with injection into the hypothalamus with lentivirus vectors that overexpressed leptin; and Group B involved the remaining 25 mice receiving intracerebral injection with the control vectors. Radiographs were obtained at 20th week to determine the presence of spinal deformity. The incidence of scoliosis and curve magnitude were compared between groups.The body weight was initially found to be slightly lower in mice of Group A when compared with Group B. Significantly higher peripheral serum leptin level was found in leptin-overexpressing mice than control mice. Scoliosis developed in 23 mice of Group A (92%), with an average Cobb angle of 30.2°, and in 13 of Group B (52%), with an average Cobb angle of 18.4°, respectively. A higher incidence (P = 0.002) and more severe curve (P0.001) were observed in Group A.In this bipedal mouse scoliosis model, enhanced central leptin activity might not only increase the risk of developing a scoliosis, but also contribute to the progression of scoliosis.N/A.

STUDY DESIGN A prospective observational analysis. OBJECTIVE The aim was to perform a quantitative analysis of the neuronal status in cervical syringomyelia secondary to Chiari I malformation (CMI-S) using diffusion tensor imaging. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Syringomyelia is a common finding in patients with CMI. Conventional imaging techniques frequently fail to assist clinicians in quantitatively assessing the neural damage in these patients. METHODS Twenty-three patients with CMI-S (aged 8-25 yr) were prospectively enrolled from April 2012 to August 2013. Sensitivity encoding single-shot echo-planar imaging was used for the sagittal diffusion tensor imaging. Fractional anisotropy (FA) values in the spinal cord were compared between the patients and normal volunteers and further evaluated with respect to syrinx severity and neurological signs/symptoms. RESULTS Compared with the normal controls, the FA values were significantly decreased at the level of the syrinx (0.429 ± 0.015 vs. 0.533 ± 0.007; P < 0.001), whereas no significant decreased FA value was measured in the tissue rostral and caudal to the syrinx. Concerning patients with different size of the syrinx, significantly decreased FA values at the syrinx level were observed in patients with a distended syrinx in comparison with those with a nondistended syrinx (0.397 ± 0.013 vs. 0.480 ± 0.018; P < 0.001). Moreover, the FA value at the syrinx level was found to be significantly decreased in the symptomatic group when compared with the nonsymptomatic or control groups (P < 0.05), and there was also a significant difference between the 2 latter groups (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Decreased FA value at the syrinx levels may provide evidence of increased microstructural damage within the spinal cord parenchyma at this area, and changes in this diffusion tensor imaging parameter are significantly related to syrinx size and to the appearance of neurological signs/symptoms. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.

Study design This is a cross-sectional study. Objective To investigate the feasibility and safety of a novel iliosacral screw placement for sacrum-pelvis in adult pelvis by computed tomography (CT) reconstruction. Summary of background data The optimal technique of spino-pelvic fixation is still being developed and redefined. However, neither the relevant anatomic parameters nor the potential spinal canal involvement for a novel iliosacral screw placement have been clearly analyzed. Methods A total of 60 adults with normal pelvis, with the age ranging from 24 to 79 years old, were included in this study. Based on three-dimensional (3D) CT reconstruction of each pelvis, virtual iliosacral screw channel was identified bilaterally, the trajectory of which was characterized with the optimal width and length from the ilium to the sacrum. The virtual iliosacral screw channel that holding the greatest width and length of osseous channel was measured by rotating the 3D pelvis. Measurements of the determined channel on either side included iliosacral-screw-related and connector-related parameters. Results There was a virtual iliosacral screw channel passing through the ilium, the iliosacral joint and then into the sacrum on either side of each pelvis. The caudal angle, convergent angle, and maximal length were 16.3 ± 3.0°, 61.3 ± 5.9°, 97.0 ± 5.6 mm in male, respectively. In female, they were 16.4 ± 3.9°, 63.0 ± 5.5° and 96.2 ± 6.0 mm, respectively. The ideal direction of the connector was from posteromedial to anterolateral. The cephalad angle, divergent angle, and embedding depth of the connector were 28.0 ± 5.7°, 28.7 ± 5.9° and 19.0 ± 2.9 mm in male, respectively. In female, they were 26.7 ± 6.1°, 27.0 ± 5.5° and 16.4 ± 2.6 mm, respectively. Conclusion It is safe and feasible to place the iliosacral screw when performing this novel instrumentation. Preoperative CT imaging and 3D reconstructions may help to determine the correct entry point and the trajectory of iliosacral screw. Level of evidence 5.

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective study. OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence and risk factors of coronal decompensation after posterior-only thoracolumbar hemivertebra (HV) resection and short fusion in patients younger than 5-years old. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Postoperative coronal decompensation may occur in operated patients during the follow up. However, there is a paucity of valid data regarding this complication in very young patients with thoracolumbar HV. METHODS This study reviewed a consecutive series of patients (younger than 5 years) who had undergone posterior-only hemivertebrectomy and short fusion from January 2006 to December 2014. They had a minimum follow-up of 24 months. According to the coronal compensation behavior, they were divided into two groups: Group P (progressed, curve decompensated beyond twenty degrees) and Group NP (nonprogressed, curve well compensated). RESULTS There were 179 patients included in this study. Mean age at surgery was 38 ± 11 months. Mean follow-up was 41 ± 11 months. Postoperative coronal decompensation was identified in 18 patients (rate, 10.1%) who constituted Group P. The remaining 161 patients had a well-compensated pattern. In contrast to Group NP, the patients in Group P had greater preoperative lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) translation (18.5 mm ± 6.4 mm vs. 10.5 mm ± 4.9 mm, P

A retrospective study.To determine the incidence and risk factors of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in young children who underwent posterior instrumented spinal fusion.PJK is a well-recognized postoperative complication in adults and adolescents. However, there is a paucity of valid data with regard to PJK in young children with congenital scoliosis (CS) who were treated with posterior correction surgery.This study reviewed the charts and radiographs of a consecutive series of young children with CS who underwent posterior instrumentation and fusion (≥4 levels) from January 2008 to May 2013. The patients were followed up for more than 24 months. Radiographic measurements were made preoperatively and throughout the follow-up period. From sagittal images, the following values were obtained: proximal junctional angle, sagittal vertical axis, pelvic incidence, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and segmental kyphosis.Totally 113 children were recruited in this study. The average age at surgery was 6.6 years, and the average follow-up period was 48.8 months. PJK occurred in 21 of the 113 patients and were mostly classified as ligamentous failure. In comparison with the non-PJK group, the PJK group showed greater preoperative Thoracic kyphosis (TK) (45.9° vs. 37.3°, P = 0.027), longer fusion levels (6.6 vs. 5.4, P 0.01), and greater segmental kyphosis (SK) change (30.1° vs. 11.2°, P = 0.002). Both a change in SK greater than 30° and a preoperative TK greater than 40° were independent risk factors associated with PJK. In the PJK group, the average PJA increased by 12.4° at 3 months postoperatively and followed by slight improvement till the final follow-up.This study demonstrates a high rate of PJK in young children after correction surgery for CS. PJK mainly occurs within 3 months postoperatively and its risk factors include preoperative hyperkyphosis, over-correction of kyphosis, and ligamentous failure.4.

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective imaging study. OBJECTIVE To conduct an assessment of the correlation of the coronal asymmetries between tonsillar ectopia, syrinx, and scoliosis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA A few reports have shown that the convex side of scoliosis was on the same side as the dominant tonsillar ectopia or syrinx deviation in a majority of patients. However, this issue remains controversial. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted on young patients with a single thoracic scoliosis secondary to Chiari malformation type I and syringomyelia. The curve direction, side of the dominant tonsillar ectopia and side of the syrinx deviation were recorded and assessed quantitatively. The correlations between the asymmetrically displaced tonsils, eccentrically located syrinx, and curve convexity were investigated. RESULTS A total of 39 patients were included. The concordance between the deviated side of the eccentrically located syrinx and dominant side of the asymmetrically displaced tonsils was 87.0%. In 88.5% of the patients with an asymmetrically displaced tonsil, the convex side of the scoliosis was concordant with the dominant side of the tonsillar ectopia, and in 86.2% of patients with an eccentrically located syrinx, the convex side of the scoliosis was on the same side as the deviated side of the syrinx. In addition, the dominant tonsillar ectopia, syrinx deviation, and curve direction were all on the same side in 82.6% patients with asymmetrically displaced tonsils and eccentrically located syrinx. CONCLUSION Asymmetrically displaced tonsils and eccentrically located syrinxes were common imaging features in these patients. The thoracic spine tended to be convex to not only the dominant side of the asymmetrically displaced tonsil, but also the deviated side of the eccentrically located syrinx. The effect of syrinx deviation on curve convexity is similar to that of dominant tonsillar ectopia in the majority of patients.

Retrospective radiographical study.To compare the sex differences in curve patterns and radiographical characteristics in patients who have adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).Sex differences in AIS have been documented in the incidence of curve progression, response to bracing, and outcomes of surgical treatment. However, limited information is available about the relation between sex and scoliosis curve patterns and radiographical presentations.A total of 359 male and 999 female patients with AIS with major curve of 20° or more were recruited. Standard posteroanterior and lateral radiographs of spine were reviewed to classify scoliosis curve patterns as typical or atypical and to measure curve severity and thoracic kyphosis. In 351 surgically treated patients, side-bending films were used to assess curve flexibility. Comparisons between male and female patients were made by subgrouping patients according to curve patterns and severity.Atypical curves were more frequently observed in male (19.8%) than in female patients (8.9%) (P0.01). Sex differences were also found in the distribution of curve types. Main thoracic curve was the most common curve type in both sexes. Furthermore, significantly higher incidence of main thoracic curve in patients with severe AIS than in patients with moderate AIS was found in male (P0.001) but not in female patients. In patients with severe AIS who had typical curve patterns that included a major thoracic curve, male patients had larger magnitude of thoracic curve, more severe thoracic kyphosis, and more rigid thoracic and lumbar curves than female patients.Atypical curve patterns were more predominant in male than in female patients with AIS. The thoracic curve in male patients with AIS might have higher incidence of progression than that in female patients. The higher rigidity of both thoracic and lumbar curves in male patients with AIS with severe curves might contribute to the lower curve correction rate and poor response to brace than in female cases.

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective study. OBJECTIVE To compare the radiographical and clinical outcomes between closing wedge osteotomy (CWO) and closing-opening wedge osteotomy (COWO) for thoracolumbar kyphosis secondary to ankylosing spondylitis. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Several surgical techniques have been used to correct the fixed thoracolumbar kyphosis caused by ankylosing spondylitis. To date, the comparison of the outcomes between CWO and COWO has not yet been addressed. METHODS According to the association with anterior edge opening or not shown on the postoperative radiographs, 64 patients were divided into 2 groups (35 patients in the CWO group and 29 patients in the COWO group). The radiographical and clinical outcomes were compared between the 2 groups, with a mean follow-up of 36 months (range, 24-84 mo). Radiographical measurements included thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, global kyphosis, sagittal vertical axis, osteotomized vertebra angle, and the height of the osteotomized vertebra. Oswestry Disability Index was evaluated at the final follow-up. RESULTS Thoracic kyphosis did not change significantly between postoperatively and the final follow-up in both groups. The mean corrections of lumbar lordosis, global kyphosis, sagittal vertical axis, and osteotomized vertebra angle were significantly larger in the COWO group than in the CWO group (P < 0.05). Notably, statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in the variation of height of the osteotomized vertebra (1.3 cm in the CWO group vs. 0.7 cm in the COWO group). In both groups, no patients had pseudarthrosis at the osteotomy level at the last follow-up. There was no significant difference of Oswestry Disability Index scores between the 2 groups at the final follow-up. CONCLUSION Both CWO and COWO are safe and effective surgical methods for correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis. COWO can obtain larger correction and better sagittal alignment without additional neurological complications.

Study design A multicenter cross-cultural study to re-evaluate the reliability and validity of the simplified Chinese version of Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) Patient Questionnaire. Objective To assess the concurrent validity and reliability of this instrument in mainland China. Summary of background data The SRS-22 Questionnaire was developed to assess the health-related quality of life for patients with scoliosis in the United States. More recently, the reliability and validity analyses of traditional and simplified Chinese versions of this questionnaire were performed, respectively. However, with respect to the diversity of population and large proportion of rural patients in China, a multicenter study might be necessary to re-evaluate its adaptation. Methods The original English version of the SRS-22 Questionnaire was translated into simplified Chinese. Considering the different health care systems in mainland China, the question 15 was modified; the respondent might be the parent if the patient was younger than 18 years. This multicenter study was performed by 13 scoliosis surgeons involving seven spine centers. The SRS-22 Questionnaire and a previously validated 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey Questionnaire were given to 391 patients with idiopathic scoliosis or congenital scoliosis without neurologic deficits. Of those, 136 patients were randomly selected for a second identical SRS-22 Questionnaire filled 1 week later and mailed back with a stamped return envelope. Results A total of 333 patients fully completed both SRS-22 and 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey Questionnaires. Good consistency was observed for all the five domains of the SRS-22. Poorer internal consistency was found in questions 15 and 18. If question 15 was excluded, the α coefficient would increase to 0.68. The pain domain of SRS-22 had a high ceiling effect being 67.5%. The test-retest reproducibility was observed "good" in the pain domain and "excellent" for the remaining domains of SRS-22 Questionnaire. Good (10 domains) and moderate (23 domains) correlations were demonstrated while seven domains had poor correlation. Conclusion The simplified Chinese version of the SRS-22 Questionnaire was re-evaluated by a multicenter study to respect the diversity of population and cultural differences in mainland China, which showed good internal consistency and satisfactory test-retest reproducibility. It might be useful for clinical evaluation of Chinese adolescents and young adults with scoliosis treated with bracing or surgery, although it also encountered previously reported difficulties with some of the items related to different cultures and health care systems.

STUDY DESIGN An association study between radiologic measurements and cosmetic appearance in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients with Lenke 5 and 6 curve types. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed at investigating the correlation between radiologic measurements and clinical cosmetic assessment indices in AIS with Lenke 5 and 6 curve types. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Cosmetic truncal and pelvic distortions are of important concern to patients with AIS. In the clinical assessment of AIS, over reliance on radiologic evaluations without corresponding objective assessment of the external physical appearance is commonly practiced. Patients having the same radiologic findings could be quite different in their physical appearance and the reverse could also happen. These observations imply that discrepancies could well exist in the cosmetic versus radiologic evaluation in AIS. METHODS A total of 52 AIS patients with dominant lumbar/thoracolumbar curve including 36 Lenke type 5 and 16 Lenke type 6 were recruited. Cobb angles, coronal balance, thoracic containment, apical vertebral translation (AVT), pelvic oblique, apical vertebral rotation were measured in the standard long-standing posteroanterior radiographs. Waistline Height Index, Waistline Depth Index, Waistline Area Index, Waist Area Index, and hump index (α) were measured clinically and the 5 parameters combined into a composite cosmetic Index (CCI). Pearson rank correlation coefficient was used to assess measurement reliability for the cosmetic indices; correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were made between the radiologic measurements and CCI. RESULTS The correlation coefficients between radiologic measurements and CCI ranged from -0.29 to 0.57, among which AVT was found to have the highest correlation coefficient, but not the Cobb angle. AVT, Cobb angle, coronal balance, thoracic containment were found to be significantly correlated with CCI (P < 0.05) with all correlation coefficients below 0.6. From linear regression analysis, CCI could be predicted by the equation (CCI = 98.0-1.18 x AVT-0.29 x Cobb angle) with adjusted R2 of 0.33 (implying that 33% of CCI variation could be accounted for by Cobb angle and AVT). CONCLUSION The present study showed that a number of radiologic indices could only partially reflect the objective cosmetic appearances in Lenke type 5 and 6 curves in AIS. Spine surgeons should put more emphasis in the clinical cosmetic evaluations and not relying solely on the radiologic assessment in AIS.

A retrospective study was performed through measurements on MRI images in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients and age-matched adolescents.To investigate the position of the cerebellar tonsil in AIS patients with a Cobb angle40 degrees in comparison with age-matched healthy adolescents and to determine the relationships of the tonsil position with age, sex, curve severity, and curve patterns.There have been increasing evidences implying that AIS patients may present with subtle or subclinical neurologic dysfunction and a higher incidence of tonsillar ectopia was documented in AIS patients. However, the tonsil position has not been clearly addressed in AIS patients with a severe curve.According to the method described by Aboulezz et al, measurements of the tonsil position relative to the magnum foramen on magnetic resonance images were performed in 203 AIS patients with a Cobb angle40 degrees and 86 age-matched healthy adolescents. The inferior displacement of the cerebellar tonsil with an extent within 5 mm was defined as tonsillar ectopia when it located below the magnum foramen. On the basis of measurement results, the incidence of tonsillar ectopia was determined in both AIS and control groups. The associations of tonsillar ectopia with curve severity and curve patterns for AIS patients and the relationships of the tonsil positions with age and gender in all subjects were analyzed.In AIS patients and healthy controls, the median position of the cerebellar tonsil was 0.8 and 2.9 mm above the magnum foramen, respectively. The incidence of tonsillar ectopia (0-4.8 mm below the magnum foramen) in AIS was found to be significantly higher than healthy adolescents (range 0-1.8 mm vs. 0-4.8 mm below the magnum foramen; ratio 34.5% vs. 5.8%; P0.01). No significant correlations were found between the position of the cerebellar tonsil with age or gender in AIS and control subjects. It was shown the position of the cerebellar tonsil was not significantly different among AIS patients with different curve severity. However, it was noted that there was a highest incidence (62.5%) of tonsillar ectopia in atypical scoliotic cases with a double thoracic curve. Additionally, a significantly higher incidence of tonsillar ectopia was found in patients with thoracic or thoracolumbar curves when compared with those with lumbar curves (37.4% vs. 21.6%, P = 0.049).Tonsillar ectopia with the extent2 mm in AIS patients should be regarded as abnormal. AIS patients had a lower tonsil position and a higher prevalence of tonsillar ectopia than controls, and tonsillar ectopia was found to be associated with curve patterns. It is suggested that a lower position of the cerebellar tonsil might be associated with the etiopathogenesis of AIS and might contribute to subclinical neurologic dysfunction in AIS patients.

A retrospective radiographical study.To compare the prediction abilities of T1 pelvic angle (TPA) and other parameters for postoperative sagittal balance, and investigate the relationships between these parameters and health-related quality of life.Using sagittal vertical axis (SVA) to assess sagittal alignment fails to take account of the pelvic compensation. A new parameter, TPA, has been recommended to represent the global sagittal balance of adult scoliosis.A retrospective review was performed on patients with adult scoliosis undergoing correction surgery from May 2009 to March 2013. The Spearman ρ was used to determine the correlations between the radiographical parameters (preoperative, postoperative, and changes) and the overall Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analogue scale (VAS), and Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire scores.Significant correlations were found between the changes of TPA and the changes of lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, sacral slope, pelvic incidence, SVA, spinosacral angle, ODI, VAS, SRS-22, and pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) degrees (P0.05). The changes of SVA were significantly related to the changes of lumbar lordosis, TPA, C7-sacrofemoral distance, ODI, VAS, SRS-22 (P0.05) but not PSO degrees (P0.05). Significant correlations were found between the changes of spinosacral angle and the changes of thoracolumbar kyphosis, TPA, ODI, VAS, SRS-22, and PSO degrees (P0.05). The changes of C7 plumb line to sacrofemoral distance ratio were significantly related to the changes of SVA (P0.05), but not the changes of ODI, VAS, SRS-22, or PSO degrees (P0.05).TPA could better reflect the postoperative changes of sagittal alignment and health-related quality of life for patients with adult scoliosis. Moreover, the changes of TPA are strongly correlated to the osteotomy degrees for PSO and, TPA could be used as a reference parameter in surgical planning.4.

STUDY DESIGN A prospective, randomized, and controlled clinical trial. OBJECTIVE To compare surgical zipper with subcuticular Monocryl sutures in terms of incision closure time, cosmetic results, and the complication rate in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) surgery. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA In previous literatures, the application of surgical zipper to incision closure has been reported to be associated with a favorable outcome. However, in the PSF surgery of patients with AIS, the use of surgical zipper has not been described. METHODS Ninety female patients with AIS undergoing PSF were assigned randomly to 2 incision closure groups either using surgical zipper or using the 4-0 absorbable subcuticular suture. The incision outcome was evaluated with the Hollander Incision Evaluation Score at 7 days, 2 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery, respectively. Besides, a visual analogue scale was allocated to each patient to rate the cosmetic result of the incision. The 2 groups were compared to determine the differences in terms of incision closure time, the complication rate, and cosmetic results. RESULTS The incision closure using surgical zipper consumed significantly less time than that using subcuticular suture (45.3 vs. 540.5 s, P < 0.001). As for the cosmetic results, no significant differences of Hollander Incision Evaluation Score scores between the 2 suturing groups were found. Besides, patients' satisfaction with cosmetic outcome on a linear visual analogue scale also revealed similar results between the 2 groups. As for postoperative complications, we found 1 case of mild blister due to allergy to the tape of the dressings and 2 cases of incisional pain in the Monocryl suture group. CONCLUSION The application of surgical zipper in PSF surgery is a safe and effective method. The ease and the speed of application make surgical zipper an attractive option for incision closure in patients with AIS undergoing PSF. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.

Study design Retrospective case-control study. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of bracing in patients with Chiari malformation-associated scoliosis (CMS) after posterior fossa decompression (PFD). Summary of background data The effectiveness of bracing has been poorly studied in patients with CMS who have undergone PFD. Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 22 patients with CMS who received brace treatment of scoliosis after PFD. Forty-four age- and sex-matched patients with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) who were treated with bracing served as the control group. The bracing outcome was considered a failure if the curve worsened 6° or more; otherwise, the treatment was considered to be successful. Results The age and Risser sign were similar between patients with CMS and IS at brace initiation. The initial curve magnitude of patients with CMS (mean, 32.9° ± 6.3°; range, 20°-45°) was marginally significantly larger than that of patients with IS (mean, 29.6° ± 6.4°; range, 20°-45°). Until the final follow-up, a 6° or more worsening of the major curve occurred in 8 patients with CMS (36%) and in 15 patients with IS (34%). Overall, 7 patients with CMS (32%) and 13 patients with IS (30%) underwent spinal fusion surgery. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in the surgery rates or the bracing success rates (P > 0.05). In patients with CMS, neither the performance of syringosubarachnoid shunting nor the extent of tonsillar descent correlated with the bracing outcomes, whereas a double major curve pattern was found to be predictive for the failure of bracing. Conclusion Brace treatment subsequent to PFD is effective in preventing curve progression for 64% of patients with CMS, which is comparable with the rate that is observed in patients with IS. Double major curve pattern may be a risk factor in predicting treatment failure in patients with CMS. Level of evidence 3.

Study design This was a cross-sectional study. Objective The present study aimed to explore the differences in leptin bioavailability between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and healthy age-matched girls in a Chinese Han population. Summary of background data AIS is a common spinal deformity mainly occurring in girls during the peripubertal period. The development of scoliosis is related to relative anterior spinal overgrowth. AIS girls also have associated lower body mass index (BMI) and lower bone mineral status. Leptin, together with soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R), was shown to play an important role in the regulation of bone and energy metabolism in children. It was hypothesized that leptin and sOB-R are abnormal and associated with deranged growth and anthropometric phenotypes in AIS girls. Methods Serum leptin and sOB-R were measured together with documentation of anthropometric parameters and clinical data in 95 AIS girls and 46 healthy matched controls (age 11-16 years). Serum leptin and sOB-R concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and correlated with the different measured parameters. Results AIS girls had significantly lower BMI and longer arm span than healthy controls. AIS girls were found to have significantly higher sOB-R levels and lower free leptin index (FLI) after adjusting for age and body weight in multivariate regression analysis. Significant correlation was found between sOB-R, FLI, and curve severity in AIS girls. Conclusion This is the first study demonstrating the presence of abnormal leptin bioavailability in AIS girls that might play an important role in the etiopathogenesis of AIS. Further investigation is required to provide a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms, with the aim to explore the potential clinical application as a biomarker for predicting curve initiation or progression in AIS.

Study Design. A prospective study was designed to investigate the circulating leptin level in girls with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Objective. To determine the circulating leptin levels in AIS girls, and to investigate its associations with body mass and bone mass. Summary of Background Data. Abnormal growth pattern and osteopenia have been well documented in AIS patients throughout the peripubertal growth period. Leptin has been shown to regulate the growth of the whole body and bone particularly during childhood and adolescence. However, the circulating level of leptin, the relationships between leptin and lower body mass, and the relationships between leptin and lower bone mass in AIS patients remain unclear. Methods. One hundred twenty AIS girls and 80 healthy controls were recruited in this study. Measurements of anthropometry and circulating leptin were performed both in AIS and non-AIS girls. Evaluations of curve severity and measurements of bone mineral content/density (BMC/BMD) were performed only in AIS girls. The anthropometric data and circulating leptin levels were compared between older AIS girls and controls. The relationships between leptin and age, menstrual status, body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), Risser sign, curve magnitude, and BMC/BMD were analyzed in AIS girls. Results. Compared with healthy controls, an abnormal growth pattern (higher corrected height, lower weight, and lower BMI), and a marked decrease of circulating leptin were found in AIS girls, even after the adjustment for age and menstrual status. Positive correlations were found between leptin and age, menstrual status, body weight, height, BMI, and Risser sign. No significant correlation was found between leptin and curve magnitude. There was no significant difference in age at menarche between menstruating AIS and non-AIS girls, though an inverse correlation was observed between leptin and the age at menarche. The relationship between leptin and BMC/BMD remained significantly positive after controlling for age and menstrual status, although it was not independent of body weight or BMI. Conclusion. A marked decrease of circulating leptin was observed in the current study. There was an association between leptin and body weight, BMI, other growth parameters, and BMC/BMD. This correlation suggests that leptin might play an important role in the lower body and bone mass in AIS girls.