Abstract
Introduction
To present a series of nine patients with early-onset scoliosis (EOS) managed with magnetically controlled growing rods (Ellipse TM MAGEC System).
Material and Methods
We implanted magnetically controlled growing rods in nine patients affected by early-onset scoliosis. Scoliosis and Kyphosis angles, T1–T12, and T1–S1 distances were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the last follow-up. A visual analogue scale score was used to evaluate pain during outpatient rod distraction procedures. The mean follow-up is 24.5 months. All patients attended distractions of the magnetic rod through an external remote control every 3 months.
Results
The mean Cobb angle value was 66.3 ± 17.6 degrees (range, 45–100 degrees) preoperatively and 30 ± 13.8 degrees (range, 15–59 degrees) at the latest follow-up. The mean T1–S1 length value was 27.2 ± 5.7 cm (range, 16–34.8 cm) preoperatively and 33.2 ± 4 cm (range, 26.5–39 cm) at the latest follow-up. The mean T1–T12 length value was 16.3 ± 2.9 cm (range, 10–19 cm) preoperatively and 20.9 ± 2.9 cm (range, 15.5–23.5 cm) at the latest follow-up. The average monthly T1–T12 height increase was 0.8 mm while the average monthly T1–S1 increase was 0.9 mm. Two patients experienced a rod breakage and one patient had a pullout of the apical hooks.
Conclusion
Although implant-related complications could occur, magnetically controlled growing rods can be effectively used in patients with EOS. This spinal instrumentation can overcome many of the complications related with the traditional growing rods implants. This procedure can be effectively used in outpatient settings, minimizing surgical scarring, and psychological distress due to multiple surgeries needed in the traditional growing rods system, improving quality of life, and saving health care costs.