Dual growing rod technique for the treatment of scoliosis in children

Abstract

Objective To determine the safety and effectiveness of the dual growing rod technique in achieving and maintaining scoliosis correction while allowing spinal growth. Methods From 2004 to 2008, 12 patients underwent dual growing rod procedures, 1 with pediatric Isola instrumentation, 11 with the special instrumentation system designed by ourselves. The system consists of two rods and a Domino connector. Diagnoses included congenital in 10 cases, neuromuscular in 1 case, and infantile and juvenile idiopathic scoliosis in 1 case. Two of the 12 children shifted from single to Dual Growing Rod Technique, the other 10 underwent Dual Growing Rod Technique at the beginning. The instrumentation systems were lengthened in a period of 9-12 months. They were followed up for 1 to 4 years. Results The mean seoliosis improved from 73 (range, 52-150 ) to 39 (range, 25-76 ) and T1-S1 length increased 47.6 mm(28. 2-52.3 mm) after initial surgery. The number of lengthening was from 1-4 times, with an interval of 9-16 months and length increasing 1.5-3. 0 cm. During the treatment period, complications occurred in 2 of the 12 patients (17%), Rod released in one patient and one got skin abrasions. Conclusions The dual growing rod technique is safe and effective. It maintains correction obtained at initial surgery while allowing spinal growth to continue. It provides adequate stability, increases the strength of extension of spine, and has an acceptable rate of complication. However, eleven patients in this group are still in the treatment, so the follow up are needed. Key words: Scoliosis; Orthopedic equipment