Association between Radiographic Parameters and Quality of Life in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: The Role of Sagittal Plane Alignment

Background: Several studies have suggested a potential relationship between radiographic parameters of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and patient-reported outcomes such as the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22 questionnaire and the Walter Reed Visual Assessment Scale (WRVAS). This study aimed to investigate the correlation between specific radiographic measurements and SRS-22 outcomes in AIS patients, with a focus on sagittal plane parameters. Materials and Methods: A total of 34 patients diagnosed with AIS were evaluated using radiographic imaging, the SRS-22 questionnaire, and WRVAS. Radiographic parameters included the major curve Cobb angle, curve type (based on the Rigo classification), apical vertebral rotation, apical vertebral translation (AVT), thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, coronal balance, and sagittal balance. Correlations between radiographic measures and individual domains of the SRS-22 and WRVAS were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: A moderate, negative, and statistically significant correlation was found between T2–T12 thoracic kyphosis and the SRS-22 domains: Pain (r = − 0.556, p = 0.001), Function (r = − 0.515, p = 0.002), Mental Health (r = − 0.438, p = 0.010), and Total Score (r = − 0.576, p < 0.001). A weak but significant negative correlation was also observed with the Self Image domain (r = − 0.345, p = 0.046). Additionally, T2–T12 kyphosis showed a moderate, positive correlation with the WRVAS score (r = 0.419, p = 0.014). Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of sagittal plane alignment in understanding the relationship between radiographic characteristics and health-related quality of life in patients with AIS.