The flexible Triac-Brace for conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. An alternative treatment option?

The flexible Triac-Brace was developed to improve cosmetic appearance and wearing comfort. It was evaluated in this study with respect to primary curve correction in idiopathic scoliosis (IS). Twenty patients (15 girls, 5 boys, mean age: 12.5) with a diagnosis of IS were treated with the Triac-Brace. Lumbar curves showed an initial average Cobb angle of 26 degrees (SD = 9 degrees), thoracic curves of 25 degrees (SD = 7 degrees). After 6.2 weeks the primary curve correction was measured (Cobb). Further radiological follow-up was done every 6 months during the average wearing time of 15 months. Cosmesis and wearing comfort were assessed by a valid scoring system (Quality of Life Profile for Spine Deformities). We observed a primary correction of 41% in lumbar curves (n = 12) (significant, t-test), and 10% in thoracic curves (n = 17) (not significant, t-test). An increase in correction over time as reported by Veldhuizen et al was not seen. Curve progression was noted in five patients (average 12 degrees). The scores for cosmesis (4.2/5) and flexibility of the back (4.6/5) were high. Ninety percent of the patients reported a wearing time of 22-23 h. We do not recommend treatment of thoracic or double curves with the Triac-Brace. Larger studies are necessary to assess the effectiveness in lumbar curves. The improved wearing comfort is a potential advantage.