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Abstract
The aim of this project is to conceive an effective orthosis for three-dimensional (3-D) correction of scoliotic deformities. The brace must ease the discomfort of existing limited tri-dimensional action by reducing the natural curves in the sagittal plane as well as psychological and behavioural problems.
Following an initial selection, we tested three braces against certain criteria of evaluation according to a decisional matrix: the catapult brace which functions with bending and twisting stems; the crankshaft brace which is activated by a s-shaped stem; and the semi-rigid brace which is based on a kyphosing action and a rotation of the trunk. The efficiency of each brace was evaluated through prototypes in a study testing immediate 3-D effect. The Boston brace was subject to a similar analysis for comparative purposes.
The semi-rigid brace was the most successful with 52.8%, followed by the catapult brace and the crank-shaft brace with respectively 47.6% and 40.1%. The Boston brace scored 44.8%. The semi-rigid brace, made up of supple material, includes a thoracic garment encircling the upper thorax, one leg short pants to provide a grip around the pelvic and the upper thighs, and upper and lower semi-elastic straps attached respectively to the garment and the pants. The straps encircle obliquely the trunk for exerting the rotational forces and kyphosing actions. Rigid thoracic and pelvic pads are respectively incorporated in the thoracic garment and the one leg short pants.
The results show that the semi-rigid brace reaches a similar corrective degree in the frontal plane than the Boston brace. In the sagittal plane, the semi-rigid brace seems to harmonize the shape of the spine while preserving its natural curves. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
