Late presentation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: who, why, and how often?

Children and young teenagers with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) not infrequently present with Cobb angles in excess of 40° at the first clinic visit. This study aimed to establish the incidence of this group of patients, identify the possible factors that may account for the late presentation, and make appropriate recommendations where applicable. This is an institutional review board-approved study.