Nikolaos Sekouris’s research while affiliated with Aglaia Kyriakou Children's Hospital and other places

This opinion article refers to the “double rib contour sign” and to the rib index (DRCS and RI), to their reliability study results in the chest radiographs of a control group and to their validity study results. These two parameters were introduced by the first author in this report. The introduction of the Segmental Rib Index (SRI) and its relation to spinal deformity is also discussed. The RI has been confirmed to be a strong surrogate for scoliometric readings in idiopathic scoliosis (IS). The clinical applications of the RI are analyzed for the following: (a) the documentation of deformity; (b) the assessment of physiotherapy outcomes (PSSEs); (c) the documentation of the outcomes of brace treatment; (d) the documentation of the pre- and post-operative assessment of thoracic deformity correction in different types of instrumentation; (e) its usage in prognosticating accelerated deterioration in skeletally mature adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) curves of 40–50 degrees; and (f) its usage in the recognition of the proper rib level for thoracoplasty/costoplasty. The emerging etiological–scoliogenic implications from the use of the DRCS and RI are described. The rotation of the trunk and vertebral bodies as interrelated, but distinct parameters are finally analyzed.

Background/Objectives: This opinion paper provides a brief overview of the history of school scoliosis screening programs following the introduction. Methods: It outlines the international administrative policies of these programs, their impact on the frequency of surgical procedures, and the effects of discontinuing school-based scoliosis screenings. Results: The primary focus is on analyzing the role of “false positive” cases detected during the Adam’s bending test, which has contributed to the discontinuation of these programs in certain countries. This focused discussion is based on the impact of growth on the relationship between spinal and rib cage deformities. Furthermore, we propose the selection of the optimal age range for screening, considering the correlation between idiopathic scoliosis prevalence and geographical latitude. Conclusions: Lastly, we emphasize the importance of continuing scoliosis screening programs in schools.

Diagnosing toddler ankle fractures, especially those that affect several bones, can be difficult. The infrequency of such complex injuries, particularly in household environments, emphasizes the importance of increased awareness in diagnosing and managing these types of injuries. We present a compelling case study of a 20-month-old toddler of a low socioeconomic background who sustained fractures in the ankle, calcaneus, tibia, and fibula after being trapped under furniture. The diagnostic process involved trauma guidelines, radiographic assessments, and axial CT scans. Conservative management, including an eight-week plaster cast, was chosen based on the careful consideration of the child's age, the nature of the fracture, and the absence of immediate surgical indications. The follow-up period involved radiographic assessments, as well as repeated regular clinical examinations, revealing consistent alignment and the absence of complications. The successful outcome underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach, thoughtful treatment planning, and meticulous follow-up. Individualized care, considering both clinical and socioeconomic factors, proved crucial for optimal outcomes in pediatric orthopedics. The case contributes valuable insights into the evolving landscape of early childhood orthopedics, emphasizing the need for a discerning approach to diagnosing and managing complex fractures in this population. Conservative treatment could significantly assist when absolute surgical indications are lacking both in cases of minimal resources where multiple operations are not plausible and when the patient's social history raises awareness.