Early-onset scoliosis affects children under 10, posing challenges to both spinal and lung development. Magnetic rod surgery is a cutting-edge solution that allows for continued growth while reducing the need for repeated anaesthesia. This method improves quality of life for children and represents a modern approach to scoliosis treatment.

A Growth-Permitting Method

Early-onset scoliosis refers to scoliosis diagnosed in children under the age of 10, where treatment methods play a critical role. Magnetic rod surgeries offer a modern approach, allowing for trunk growth and lung development while reducing the need for frequent anaesthesia, thus enhancing the quality of life for children.

 

 

What Is Early-Onset Scoliosis?

Early-onset scoliosis is a type of scoliosis observed in children below 10 years of age. In this age group, scoliosis can significantly impact both spinal and lung development. Therefore, treatment focuses on methods that permit growth.

Initial Treatment Options: Casting and Bracing

The treatment of early-onset scoliosis often begins with non-surgical methods. In younger children, casting and bracing are the first steps to control the progression of scoliosis. However, in cases where these methods prove insufficient, surgical interventions may become necessary.

Surgical Approach to Early-Onset Scoliosis

In adolescents, scoliosis surgeries often involve fusion techniques where the spine is stabilised and corrected. However, applying the same methods to early-onset scoliosis can hinder trunk growth, adversely affecting lung development. Additionally, this can result in spinal deformities known as the "crank shaft phenomenon." For this reason, surgical treatment for early-onset scoliosis requires systems that allow for continued spinal and trunk growth.

What Is Magnetic Growing Rod Surgery?

The magnetic growing rod technique is a growth-permitting surgical method used in early-onset scoliosis. The procedure involves the following steps:

• Placement of Screws: Paediatric pedicle screws are inserted into approximately two vertebrae in the upper and lower sections of the spine.
• Preservation of Anatomy: No muscle dissection is performed in the intermediate section of the spine, preserving the anatomical structure.
• Attachment of Magnetic Rods: Screws are connected using magnetic and telescopic rods. These rods contain a motor in the centre, which can be adjusted remotely using a magnetic controller.

Advantages of Magnetic Rods

Magnetic rod techniques offer significant advantages compared to traditional growth-permitting systems:

• Reduction in Repeat Surgeries: Unlike other systems that require general anaesthesia and surgical procedures every six months to lengthen the rods, magnetic rods can be adjusted externally using a remote control.
• Reduced Anaesthesia Risk: Protects children from the potential long-term side effects of repeated general anaesthesia.
• Quick and Painless Adjustment: Lengthening procedures can be performed in outpatient settings quickly and without discomfort.

Superiority of Magnetic Rods Over Traditional Methods

Traditional growth-permitting systems often involve creating 5 cm incisions under general anaesthesia for each lengthening procedure. This can take a physical and psychological toll on children. In contrast, surgeries using magnetic rods eliminate the need for such additional interventions.

Who Is Suitable for Magnetic Rods?

If the type of scoliosis curve and the child’s age are suitable for magnetic growing rods, this method provides a more comfortable treatment option by reducing repeated anaesthesia and surgical incisions.

Conclusion

In early-onset scoliosis treatment, magnetic growing rods offer a less invasive and more child-friendly alternative. By eliminating the need for repeated surgeries, this approach enhances quality of life while presenting a modern solution in spinal surgery.