When Is a Growth-friendly Strategy Warranted? A Matched Comparison of Growing Rods Versus Primary Posterior Spinal Fusion in Juveniles With Early-onset Scoliosis

Conclusions: In juveniles aged 7 to 11 with EOS, on average GRs afford 2 cm of thoracic height over primary PSF at the cost of poorer deformity correction and additional complications and operations. Primary PSF affords an average of 2 cm of thoracic height gain; if an additional 2 cm will be impactful then GRs should be considered. However, in most juveniles the height gained may not warrant the iatrogenic stiffness, complications, and additional operations. Surgeons and families should weigh these benefits and harms when choosing a treatment plan. Level of Evidence: Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Source: Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Scoliosis Source Type: research