We analyzed the biomechanics of Milwaukee brace treatment of idiopathic
scoliotic patients through simulation in five computer-constructed model
spines. The contributions to correction of each component of the brace were
examined in these model spines, and some of the mechanical principles that
determine the outcome of brace treatment were studied. The validity of the
stimulation findings was then tested by a retrospective analysis.
Simulation was used to predict the outcome of milwaukee brace treatment in
sixty-eight patients. In 81 per cent of these patients, the actual outcome
agreed with the prediction. The study suggests that careful adherence to
mechanical principles in the use of a Milwaukee brace will result in
successful treatment of more patients.