Researchers examined medical records from five different centers to identify 38 young patients treated with dual growing rods for early onset scoliosis. The patients underwent at least three lengthening procedures, and the average interval between lengthenings was 6.8 months.
The patients experienced a decreased Cobb angle from 74 degrees preoperatively to 36 degrees after the primary implant. The angle did not change significantly after lengthenings. The average annual T1-S1 gain after implantation was 1.76 centimeters per year, but the gain after a given lengthening decreased significantly with repeated lengthenings. Researchers also identified a significant decrease in T1-S1 gain over time.
Study authors speculate that these results could occur from the autofusion of the spine after prolonged immobilization by a rigid device.
Read the abstract about growing rods for patients with scoliosis.
Read Articles Related to Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis:
Adolescent Scoliosis Treatment Challenges and Innovations: Q&A With Dr. Christopher R. Good of the Virginia Spine Institute
Rotational Pattern Determines Idiopathic Scoliosis Curve
Study: Growing Rods for Childhood Scoliosis Treatment Likely to Cause Autofusion
