The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems in Dresden, Germany, has created an electrostimulation implant to help treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, according to Medical Daily.
Here are six things to know:
1. The prototype implant is designed to imitate nerve signals that are affected by idiopathic scoliosis.
2. Andreas Heinig, MD, led the study and worked with researchers in Spain and France.
3. The electrostimulation should instigate counter-contractions that result in symmetrical spine growth.
4. Implanted in the groin area, the device has eight electrical cables that connect to the spinal cord.
5. About six to eight hours of treatment daily would be necessary for the device to be effective.
6. The device is set for more clinical studies, before it will be made available.