[Major scoliosis, over 100 degrees, in adults. 183 surgically treated cases].

Most severe scoliosis and kyphoscoliosis are not unfrequent in European countries. The purpose of their treatment is not only cosmetic but, often, vital. Patients are hypotrophic and their vital capacities usually very poor. Since 1952, the authors have treated (partial, reduction and fusion) 183 patients: with curves above 100 degrees (101 degrees-203 degrees). Reduction was obtained by distraction cast or halo-traction. Surgical treatment (one or two stages) used Harrington rods and fusion with a large amount of iliac bone. These procedures are dangerous for the medullary function. Controls must be performed during the operative distraction. Follow up studies demonstrated the stability of the obtained reductions.