TOLERANCE OF PHYSICAL EFFORT IN PATIENTS WITH SURGICALLY TREATED SCOLIOSIS

Abstract

Fourty-eight patients were treated operatively for idiopathic scoliosis by means of CotrelDubousset technique heaving pre-operative angle values of 50°_70°. Exercise test was performed using cycle ergometer both in pre-and postoperative period. Cardiorespiratory parameters were constantly measured throughout the test to estimate ventilation threshold. Following parameters were included: heart rate, oxygen intake, lung ventilation per minute, rate and volume of ventilation, as well as power and work performed. Test was terminated when ventilation threshold was achieved. This is considered noninvasive method to calculate threshold of anaerobic metabolism. Maximal oxygen intake was indicated by means of Astrand-Ryhming nomogram. Body weight and height were also measured. Operative treatment of scoliosis using Cotrel-Dubousset method enhances physical efficiency moderately most probably due to improvement of respiratory mechanics, increase in ventilation per minute during exercise test through deepening of breaths rather than increase in ventilation rate.