High-resolution MRI Study of Paravertebral Muscles in Children with Idiopathic or Neuromuscular Scoliosis Comparing Muscle Differences by Scoliosis Type and Curve Side

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring differences in the muscles alongside the spine in children with scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves abnormally. This study focuses on comparing children with two types of scoliosis idiopathic, which has no known cause, and neuromuscular, which relates to muscle or nerve problems. The aim is to understand if muscle issues play a role in the development or progression of idiopathic scoliosis by using detailed imaging techniques. Participants will undergo a standard axial MRI scan to examine their spinal cord, with an additional 5-minute sequence called Diffusion Tensor Imaging DTI to study the paravertebral muscles in high detail. The study will compare muscle characteristics such as area, fiber number, and other MRI values between the curved sides of the spine and between the two scoliosis groups. Children aged 10 to 17 years with scoliosis that meets specific criteria will be included. During the study visit, children will complete a questionnaire about their physical activity and sedentary habits. The MRI images will be analyzed with specialized software to measure muscle features in defined spinal regions. The research team will look for differences in muscle morphology related to scoliosis type and curve side. This observational period involves data collection and analysis, with statistical methods used to compare findings, aiming to improve understanding of scoliosis muscle involvement.

Paravertebral Muscles Assessment Using High-resolution MRI in Idiopathic or Neuromuscular Scoliosis Children