About AIS
ApiFix® is committed to helping patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and their families make informed decisions about treatment options in partnership with their orthopedic specialist.
Scoliosis is a side-to-side curve of the spine greater than 10 degrees. The spine of a person with scoliosis can look like a “C” or “S” instead of a straight line. Scoliosis affects 2-3% of the U.S. population.
AIS is a type of scoliosis that occurs in late childhood or adolescence of which the cause is unknown. More than 80% of scoliosis cases are diagnosed as idiopathic. In many cases, AIS curves are stable; however, in some cases, the curve continues to progress over time.
AIS does not usually cause pain. Some common signs of AIS are a tilt or unevenness in the shoulders, hips, or waist. AIS is typically detected during regular physical examination, scoliosis screenings at school, or at home by family members or the child.
Treatments for AIS depend on a number of factors including, but not limited to, size of the curve, skeletal maturity, and curve progression. Common treatments include:
Observation for curves less than 25 degrees or patients who are done growing and have curves that are not progressing.
Bracing for curves greater than 25 degrees, but less than 40 degrees in patients who are still growing.
Surgery for curves greater than 45 degrees or 50 degrees and/or patients who are at high risk of progression after they are done growing.
To learn more about AIS and to connect with others who have scoliosis, check out the following online resources:
ApiFix is a non-fusion treatment option for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. Download Our eBook To Learn About ApiFix and Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis!
OrthoPediatrics Corp.
2850 Frontier Drive
Warsaw, IN 46582
USA
T. 1-877-268-6339