===== Journal Review: Spine Deformity =====

==== Scope and Focus ====
* '''Spine Deformity''' is the official journal of the '''Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)'''
* Covers clinical and basic science research in spinal deformities across all ages
* Common topics: early-onset scoliosis (EOS), adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, adult deformity, biomechanical modeling, surgical innovation

==== Editorial and Publishing Info ====
* Publisher: Springer Nature
* Frequency: Bimonthly (6 issues/year)
* Hybrid access (subscription + optional open access)
* Editors-in-Chief: René Castelein, John Lonstein

==== Metrics (2024) ====
  * '''Impact Factor''': 1.8 (↑ from 1.6 in 2023)
  * '''5-Year IF''': 2.0
  * '''SCImago SJR''': 0.778 (Q2 in Orthopedics & Sports Medicine)
  * '''Median time to first decision''': 6 days
  * '''Annual article downloads''': ~228,600

==== Strengths ====
  * Affiliated with the SRS – high relevance and endorsement
  * Efficient peer review with fast turnaround
  * Recognized platform for spine deformity-specific research
  * Accepts innovative biomechanical and data science studies
  * Annual awards for best papers (e.g., Douglas Burton Award)

==== Limitations ====
  * Moderate impact compared to top-tier journals (e.g., ''Spine'', ''The Spine Journal'')
  * Hybrid publishing may limit access to some articles
  * SJR in Q2 – intermediate global research influence

==== Clinical & Academic Relevance ====
  * Go-to journal for surgeons managing EOS, AIS, and adult deformity
  * Frequently publishes outcomes on:
    * Growth-friendly techniques (e.g., MAGEC, Shilla)
    * Vertebral body tethering
    * Navigation and robotic assistance
    * Biomechanical and computational tools

==== Final Verdict ====
'''Score: 7/10'''

A specialty journal with a strong clinical niche in spine deformity. While it doesn't carry the broad impact of leading spine journals, it remains a vital platform for deformity-focused clinical and translational work, especially in early-onset scoliosis.

==== Bottom Line ====
''Spine Deformity'' is a respected, efficient, and steadily growing outlet for high-quality scoliosis research. Essential for deformity specialists, especially in pediatric and complex spinal reconstruction contexts.