Growing rods in Early Onset Scoliosis: The current scenario

The treatment of early onset scoliosis is a challenge. Some curves resolve spontaneously, while the more aggressive ones require surgical intervention. Several surgical strategies have been explored in this unique group of patients, though the distraction based growing rods are the mainstay of treatment. The aim of this paper is to consider the current scenario with the surgical treatment for early onset scoliosis with growing rods.

This is a narrative review that explores the various types of growing rod options that are currently available. The results, as reported in literature, are discussed. The complications and problems with the commonly used growing rods are explored, based on the reported literature and on retrieval analysis that we have published. We discuss some of the newer modifications of growing rods.

There is no real consensus on the ideal timing for the surgery or ways to assess the outcomes of the treatment. The Cobb angle measurement and measures of thoracic growth are surrogate markers. The main indication for surgery is to an increase in the thoracic dimensions and allowing for lung growth. Measures that are linked to lung function are more useful. We report some newer MRI scanning technology. Distraction-based growing rods have been reported to produce consistent and good results. Frequent return to theatre with the Traditional Growing Rods (TGR) and the metallosis related problems with the MCGR are reported.

We have learned a lot from the TGR and MCGR experiences. There is a scope for ongoing research to improve the design of the implant systems and better assess the outcomes on lung function. This review outlines these and helps identify the future trends.