Graduation Protocol After Growing-Rod Treatment: Removal of Implants without New Instrumentation Is Not a Realistic Approach
JOURNAL OF BONE AND JOINT SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME, vol.99, no.18, pp.1554-1564, 2017 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 99 Issue: 18
- Publication Date: 2017
- Doi Number: 10.2106/jbjs.17.00031
- Journal Name: JOURNAL OF BONE AND JOINT SURGERY-AMERICAN VOLUME
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
- Page Numbers: pp.1554-1564
- Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background: The growing rod remains an effective option in the treatment of early-onset scoliosis, and has previously been likened to an internal brace. While details of growing-rod treatment have been largely agreed on, the appropriate end point remains a matter of controversy. A decision was made in 2004, at the beginning of growing-rod treatment at our institution, to remove longitudinal instrumentation when the period of lengthening concluded and, similar to discontinuing a brace, leave the spine free.