Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Clinical Efficacy of an Innovative Multidimensional Traction Therapy in Moderate Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Published on: February 10, 2026
Anterior scoliosis rod migration to the lower extremity
Kenneth E Wood1, Robert D Fitch, Douglas C Burton
1Lake Norman Spine Center, 170 Medical Park Road, Suite 102, Mooresville, NC 28117, USA. kwood0306@hotmail.com
Background Context:
Scoliosis rod migration has been reported rarely in the literature. We present a case study on three patients with distant migration of anterior scoliosis rod implants.
Purpose:
To report an unusual complication of rod migration of anterior retroperitoneally implanted scoliosis rods in three patients.
Study Design/Setting:
A retrospective case report.
Methods:
Radiographic analysis.
Results:
Asymptomatic rod migration occurred from the anterior spine to the lower extremity in two cases and to the retroperitoneal space in the third case. The rod fragment appeared in the lower extremity in two cases and was removed through a small skin incision in the extremity. The average time from scoliosis surgery until the rods were found at a distant site was 9 years.
Conclusions:
The scoliosis surgery was effective in preventing further deformity; however, in two cases there was nonunion at one or two levels. Patients are asymptomatic at the present time and followed at regular intervals to see if further surgery is necessary to correct areas of nonunion.
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Lower Limb: Tibia and Fibula
Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
