Using TOCI to predict skeletal maturity and curve progression in scoliosis

Development of a New Simplified Thumb Ossification Composite Index (TOCI) and Its Application to Predict Skeletal Maturity and Curve Progression in Idiopathic Scoliosis and Normal Subjects

Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT03904914

This study is testing if a new method using hand bone growth can help doctors predict how scoliosis will progress in young teens with the condition.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1500 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong (other)
Locations1 site (Sha Tin)
Trial IDNCT03904914 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the Thumb Ossification Composite Index (TOCI) as a method for predicting skeletal maturity and curve progression in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. The study addresses the limitations of existing skeletal maturity assessment methods, which are often too complex or inadequate for quick clinical use. By focusing on the ossification of small hand bones, the TOCI seeks to provide a more reliable and efficient way to assess growth and inform treatment decisions, such as bracing and prognosis counseling. Participants will be pre-menarche adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis and will undergo radiographic assessments to determine their skeletal maturity.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pre-menarche adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis who meet specific radiographic criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with non-idiopathic scoliosis or those with maturation abnormalities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate and timely assessments of skeletal maturity, improving management and outcomes for adolescents with scoliosis.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in skeletal maturity assessment methods, the TOCI approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male or female
* Pre-menarche
* Confirmed diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis
* No evidence of neurological abnormality
* No abnormalities of maturation
* Risser sign of zero in spinal radiograph and open physis in hand radiograph

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with diagnosis of non-idiopathic scoliosis, e.g. congenital, neuromuscular , syndromal cause of scoliosis
* Patients with maturation abnormality (either precocious puberty or developmental delay)
* Abnormalities of the head or neck that would change height measurements
* Previous history of spinal fusion operation performed

Where this trial is running

Sha Tin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Scoliosis, Adolescence, Bone Diseases, Bone Growth Abnormal, TOCI, scoliosis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.