Thoracic Insufficiency Syndrome
Diagnosis

Unlike the diagnosis of scoliosis, which is made based solely on measurements of angulation of the spine on x-ray, the diagnosis of thoracic insufficiency syndrome is complex, requiring detailed history, physical examination, laboratory studies, X-rays, CT scans, as well as pulmonary function studies, if obtainable. It is important to diagnose thoracic insufficiency syndrome in young scoliosis patients early, and your pediatric spine surgeon can determine this, or refer you to surgeons familiar with thoracic insufficiency syndrome for evaluation and treatment.

The Scoliosis Research Society provides information on these web pages regarding research and links as a public service. The SRS believes that patients should contact their treating physician about the relevance of any information listed on the site prior to proceeding with any particular treatment. Just as no two individuals are exactly alike, no two patients with a spinal deformity are the same. Therefore, your spinal deformity surgeon will be the most important source of information about the management of your particular spinal problem.