The SAQ is a valid measure of self-image in patients with AIS with greater correlation to curve magnitude than SRS Appearance and Total score. It also discriminates between patients who require surgery from those who do not.

There are 2 risk factors that lead to thoracic hypokyphosis in AIS: preoperative hypokyphosis and use of a 5.5-mm-diameter rod. A larger-diameter rod should be considered when planning surgery for thoracic AIS, especially when there is preoperative hypokyphosis. Despite thoracic kyphosis measuring less than 20°, these patients did not have decreased clinical outcomes as measured by the SRS-30 or SAQ.