The use of outcomes instruments in the assessment of patients with idiopathic scoliosis.

Outcomes research is becoming an increasingly vital aspect of modern medicine. With current cost containment measures, the need for effective and reproducible treatment options is essential. The methodology associated with these outcomes studies is varied. Studies involving radiographic assessment can be effective with respect to instrumentation performance. However, studies that use physical parameters for outcomes do not include the patient's perception of outcome. For surgical outcome to be considered successful, patient satisfaction must be taken into account. The tools and methods used to assess patient satisfaction are complicated, as these outcomes measures must stratify the various aspects of daily living, personal perception, and overall well-being. The interpretation and analysis of these patient-perceived data can prove challenging because the variability within a group can be large based on human factors. Nonetheless, patient satisfaction should be of prime importance and should be addressed in any outcome study. An overview of the parameters and terms associated with outcomes research in the assessment of patients with scoliosis is important in order to improve existing care or aid in the evaluation of new standards of care.