Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Observational Ages 10 to 18

Evaluating the best bracing methods for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Official title: Determining the Best Indications for Initiating Brace Treatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT04117334 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing the best ways to use braces for teenagers with scoliosis to see how they can help prevent worsening of the curve while keeping costs and discomfort low.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages10 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
Enrollment700 (estimated)
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Hong Kong and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedDecember 1, 2016
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2025
Study endsMarch 31, 2026
Registry record updatedDecember 6, 2024
Trial IDNCT04117334 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis who are still growing and prescribed bracing.

Probably not a fit

Patients with scoliosis not classified as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis or those unable to comply with follow-up will not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the cost-effectiveness of bracing protocols for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). It aims to determine the optimal timing for initiating brace treatment to prevent curve progression while minimizing discomfort and resource use. The study will utilize health-related quality of life assessments and cost analyses to evaluate the impact of bracing on patients. By identifying the best indications for bracing, the findings could enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and cost-efficient treatment strategies for adolescents with scoliosis.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown success in evaluating bracing effectiveness, but this specific cost-effectiveness approach is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and are seen in the first setting with remaining growth potential (Risser 0-2), and are prescribed with either underarm (Boston) or Milwaukee bracing

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients whose diagnosis is not adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, unable to comply with study follow-up and refused consent for study

Where it's running

  • Duchess of Kent Children's Hospital
    Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    Recruiting
  • Jason Pui Yin Cheung
    Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Jason Cheung, MBBS, MS — Hku/ha
  • Study coordinator: Jason Cheung, MBBS, MS
  • Email: cheungjp@hku.hk
  • Phone: (852)22554581

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.