Background. The King classification enables the surgeon to assess the curve pattern of scoliosis which determines the choice of operative technique as well as the extent of spinal fusion. The final outcome of operative treatment depends on the curve pattern and the degree of scoliosis. Material and methods. The aim of the study was to assess the relation between the correction of the deformity and the curve pattern. In this retrospective study, 97 patients were included who had undergone scoliosis surgery between 1999 and 2001, and for whom the follow-up period was at least 36 months. 12 patients were classified as type I according to the King classification, 26 as type II, 49 as type III, and 5 each as type IV and V. The mean Cobb angle in the whole group was 58 degrees in the thoracic region and 38 degrees in the lumbar region, while in the sagittal plane there was kyphosis of the thoraco-lumbar region of 3 degrees . Results. Postoperative values were as follows: thoracic region - 30.2 degrees , lumbar region - 27.6 degrees and thoraco-lumbar region - lordosis of 4 degrees . Conclusions. The Cotrel-Dubousset method makes it possible to achieve an average correction of 65% of the original deformity, the best result being achieved for type IV and V. Operative treatment should be applied to patients with scoliosis of an angle below 60 degrees , which enables compensation of trunk transposition.