Scoliosis is a common spinal deformity in which a sideways curve develops. The analysis of this curve is often done using X-rays. This is, among other things, used to monitor the progression of the curve and assess flexibility for surgical planning. This thesis begins with analysing X-rays; previously discovered prognostic factors for progression were not confirmed, and it was shown that prone bending X-rays are superior for determining the flexibility of the curve in certain types of scoliosis. Scoliosis can also cause pulmonary symptoms. Many different tests are conducted to assess lung function, but the question is how much these tests contribute. The origin of these symptoms is still unclear. By using an innovative shirt, it appears that this is not solely due to poor lung function. What is important for patients are the symptoms they experience, and in this thesis we lay the foundation for a validated patient-reported-outcome measure.
Niek te Hennepe (1994) obtained his master's degree in Medicine in 2019 and started working as a medical doctor at Radboudumc. During his master's program, Niek began researching in spinal surgery, which led to a PhD trajectory. In 2021, he started his training to become an orthopedic surgeon. He is currently in his fifth year of training at Radboudumc, Sint Maartenskliniek, and Rijnstate Hospital.