The Scolioscope: a home detection tool for measuring axial trunk rotation in scoliosis—a validation study

Abstract

Purpose: Screening for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using the Adam Forward Bending Test (AFBT) remains controversial, resulting in the discontinuation of scoliosis screening in the Netherlands. This study aims to validate the Scolioscope, a simplified version of the Scoliometer, for detecting scoliosis in a home setting. Methods: A validation study was conducted at the orthopedic outpatient clinic of Erasmus Medical Center Sophia Children's Hospital in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Patients aged 9–18 years with or without AIS and capable of performing the AFBT were included. The Scolioscope measurement of the parents was compared with the Scoliometer measured by an orthopedic surgeon. After unsatisfactory results with the initial Scolioscope version, a revised version was developed and tested. Results: Among 100 patients included in the study, 79 had scoliosis. The revised version of the Scolioscope demonstrated a positive predictive value of 97%, a negative predictive value of 89%, sensitivity of 94%, and specificity of 94%. Parental measurements showed no variation, with an intra-observer reliability kappa value of 1. Conclusion: The Scolioscope demonstrates high diagnostic accuracy and precision, making it suitable for use in at-home scoliosis screening programs.