Three solutions to a single problem: alternative casting frames for treating infantile idiopathic scoliosis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Spinal Surgery
• Medical Device Alternatives

Background:

• Casting for infantile scoliosis is increasingly favored due to positive outcomes and lower complication rates compared to surgical interventions.
• The widespread adoption of casting has been hindered by the requirement for specialized, costly casting tables, limiting treatment to specialized centers.
• This limitation often necessitates long-distance travel for patients seeking effective infantile scoliosis treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present three alternative casting frames for infantile scoliosis treatment.
• To enable surgeons to perform casting without specialized equipment, facilitating local patient care.
• To demonstrate the use of commonly available materials for constructing effective casting frames.

Main Methods:

• This technique article describes three distinct alternatives to conventional, commercially available casting frames.
• Detailed instructions cover the requirements, setup procedures, and application techniques for each alternative frame.
• The presented methods focus on utilizing readily available materials found in most medical institutions.

Main Results:

• All presented alternative frames have been successfully utilized by surgeons.
• These frames provide sufficient support and traction necessary for effective casting.
• The designs allow adequate access to the patient's trunk for precise cast molding.

Conclusions:

• Infantile scoliosis casting, including the Cotrel/Metha technique, can be effectively performed without specialized casting tables.
• Commonly available equipment can be repurposed to create functional casting frames.
• This approach democratizes access to infantile scoliosis treatment, allowing for local application.