Lateral electrical surface stimulation in idiopathic scoliosis. Experience in two private practices.

One hundred twenty-six patients with idiopathic scoliosis were treated by lateral electrical surface stimulation. Of these, 39 patients satisfied a strict set of protocols and were evaluated as a group. In this subgroup, curves averaged 28 degrees (range, 20-38 degrees). Thirty-eight percent exhibited initial curves greater than 30 degrees. Thirty percent of patients had a Risser sign of 0. Follow-up was from 6 months to 6 years. Progression was greater than 5 degrees in 48% and greater than 10 degrees in 35%. The final curve was greater than 40 degrees in 30%. Twenty-eight required fusion. Compared with natural history studies, these results are acceptable, and the authors continue to offer lateral electrical surface stimulation as a method of nonoperative care for progressive idiopathic scoliosis.