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Risser Sign in Scoliosis

Topic Overview

The Risser sign helps measures the risk that a curve in the spine (scoliosis) will get worse, or progress. It measures how much mature bone has developed (ossification) in the upper rim of the pelvis (iliac crest). Values range from 0 (least ossification and greatest risk of progression) to 5 (complete ossification and least risk of progression). This is determined by an X-ray.

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Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Last Revised July 21, 2011

Last Revised: July 21, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics

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