Researchers in Hong Kong have shown that a rod that lengthens under magnetic control can effectively treat the spinal curvature seen in children with scoliosis. The approach is much less invasive than existing rod-based therapies, which require repeated invasive surgeries and hospitalization every six months. The magnetically controlled growing rod can be adjusted in outpatient visits, minimizing scarring, pain, time away from school, and burden on parents (because they have to take less time off from work).
The spine of scoliosis patients grows crooked, sometimes appearing to have an S-curve or C-curve from the back. Severe cases can lead to disfigurement and breathing problems if left untreated. In the study published in The Lancet last week, five patients had the magnetically controlled growing rods surgically implanted and affixed to their spines and then underwent monthly outpatient adjustments. During the adjustments, a doctor places a handheld magnetic remote control on the patient’s back. The remote engages a rotating and lengthening mechanism in the rod. Adjustments take less than 30 seconds, say the authors.
The rod system is marketed by a California company called Ellipse Technologies, but the tests were conducted at the Duchess of Kent Children’s Hospital in Hong Kong. Two of the patients have had the titanium rods for as long as two years, and both show positive results so far, although more time is needed before the experimental treatment can be compared to standard therapies.
Don’t settle for half the story.
Get paywall-free access to technology news for the here and now.