What is the most serious complication associated with scoliosis?

The most serious complication associated with scoliosis is restrictive lung disease. Scoliosis, which is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, can lead to significant alterations in thoracic cavity shape and volume. As the curvature progresses, it can compress the lungs and limit their capacity to expand, resulting in reduced lung volumes and impaired respiratory function.

This is particularly significant in cases of severe scoliosis where the curvature can exceed 70 degrees. In such instances, the rib cage may become deformed, further squeezing the lungs and causing major breathing difficulties, which can include hypoventilation and, in more serious scenarios, pulmonary hypertension.

Restrictive lung disease can lead to complications such as severe respiratory distress and diminished exercise tolerance, greatly impacting quality of life. While spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and chronic back pain can arise due to scoliosis, these do not pose as immediate and severe a threat to the patient's respiratory health as restrictive lung disease does.