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Risser sign

The Risser sign helps measures the risk that a curve in the spine (scoliosis) will get worse, or progress. It measures how much mature bone has developed (ossification) in the upper rim of the pelvis (iliac crest). Values range from 0 (least ossification and greatest risk of progression) to 5 (complete ossification and least risk of progression). This is determined by an X-ray.

Author Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Denele Ivins
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD
- Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Thomas S. Renshaw, MD
- Orthopedics
Last Updated August 30, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 30, 2007
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