An Unexpected Journey: Migration of a Scoliosis Rod to the Groin

Rod migration is a rare but potentially serious late complication of spinal instrumentation. A case of long-distance rod migration to the groin following anterior lumbar fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is presented. A 43-year-old female, who had undergone selective anterior lumbar fusion 20 years earlier, presented with progressive lumbar pain. Initial radiographs demonstrated screw loosening and rod dislodgment. Before the planned revision surgery, the patient re-presented with pain localized to the hip and groin. Imaging revealed distal migration of the rod toward the anterior aspect of the hip joint. The patient underwent surgical removal of the migrated rod via an anterior hip (Smith–Petersen) approach. Intraoperatively, the rod was identified adjacent to the femoral nerve and was carefully removed without neurovascular injury. Postoperatively, symptoms improved, and staged treatment consisting of removal of the remaining instrumentation followed by correction of the residual deformity was planned. Rod migration is frequently associated with pseudoarthrosis, inadequate biological fusion, and persistent segmental motion. These factors may facilitate progressive implant migration along anatomical pathways such as the psoas muscle. Clinical presentation is typically nonspecific, leading to potential diagnostic delays. This case highlights the importance of considering implant-related complications in patients with atypical pain and a history of spinal instrumentation. Early recognition is essential to prevent implant progression and potentially serious neurovascular complications.

Cite this article as: Albayrak B, Tabur F, Erdoğan F, H, Coşkun S. An unexpected journey: migration of a scoliosis rod to the groin. Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc. 2026; 60(4), 01011, doi: 10.5152/j.aott.2026.261011.