Left-right upper arm length asymmetry associated with apical vertebral rotation in subjects with thoracic scoliosis: anomaly of bilateral symmetry affecting vertebral costal and upper arm physes?
Date
2006
Authors
Burwell, R.
Freeman, B.
Dangerfield, P.
Aujla, R.
Cole, A.
Kirby, A.
Pratt, R.
Webb, J.
Moulton, A.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, 2006; 123:66-71
Statement of Responsibility
Burwell RG, Freeman BJ, Dangerfield PH, Aujla RK, Cole AA, Kirby AS, Pratt RK, Webb JK, Moulton A.
Conference Name
Abstract
Left-right skeletal length asymmetries in upper limbs related to curve side and severity have been detected with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). This paper reports upper arm length asymmetry in thoracic scoliosis related significantly to apical vertebral rotation in school screening referrals. The reason(s) for the association of upper arm length asymmetry with apical vertebral rotation is unknown and three factors are considered: (1) neuromuscular mechanisms from primary or secondary causes, (2) relative concave neurocentral synchondrosis overgrowth, and (3) relative concave periapical rib length overgrowth, A putative anomaly of growth plates (physes) of ribs, neurocentral synchondroses and upper arms, would account for the findings. A solution to this dilemma may emerge from the results of surgery should concave periapical rib resections become evaluated further for right thoracic AIS in girls.