Magnetically controlled growing rod in 13 patients with early-onset scoliosis and spinal improvement

Abstract

Objective
The aim of this study was to examine the use of magnetically controlled growing rods as a method of providing spinal improvement while preventing thoracic insufficiency in patients with early-onset scoliosis (EOS).
Methods
Of a total of 13 patients, 4 patients underwent a dual magnetic rod implantation, while 9 patients had a single magnetic rod procedure. The study group comprised 12 (93%) female and 1 (7%) male patients. Six patients (46%) had an idiopathic form of scoliosis, in 4 (30%) it was congenital, and in 3 (23%) it was neuromuscular scoliosis. The patients' Cobb angles, thoracic kyphosis, T1-T12 and T1-S1 distance prior to and following the treatment were compared.
Results
The mean Cobb angle before surgery was 53.780, whereas it decreased to 39.290 postoperatively (p < 0.001). The mean thoracic kyphosis angle was 400 before and 29.790 after surgery (p < 0.001). The mean T1-S1 distance was 32.14 cm before and 36.36 cm after surgery (p < 0.001). The mean T1-T12 distance was 18.69 cm before and 20.64 cm after surgery (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The use of magnetic rods is an effective method of EOS treatment. It allows for spinal growth while managing the progression of the scoliosis.
Level of evidence
Level IV, therapeutic study.
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