Indications for magnetically controlled growing rods have evolved over time

The purpose of this study is to determine the trends in use of magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) over time for the treatment of scoliosis.

All patients treated with MCGRs were identified through a multi-center pediatric spine database from 2014 to 2021. MCGR use over time was analyzed with respect to individual variables within the dataset including demographics, etiology, primary vs conversion surgeries, and major curve magnitude.

A total of 1,404 patients treated with MCGRs were identified. MCGR usage grew quickly until 2017 and then steadily declined through 2021. There was minimal variation over time with respect to patients' age and weight. MCGR as the index implant as opposed to revision surgery increased from 67% in 2014 to 99% in 2021. Initially, MCGR utilization was consistent across scoliosis etiologies; however, over time, it grew among neuromuscular patients while decreasing among other etiologies. MCGR use decreased over time for curves with magnitude < 60 degrees, with a corresponding rise in curves > 80 degrees.

Use of MCGRs expanded quickly after initial FDA approval in 2014 with broad indications. Over time, the indications for use of MCGRs have steadily evolved. In recent years, a higher proportion of them are used in neuromuscular scoliosis and larger curves in contrast to declining use in smaller curves.

III.