The journey of scoliosis treatment has been marked by significant advancements, each one bringing us closer to a more effective, less invasive approach to managing this complex condition. From the era of the Harrington rod to the innovative MAGEC® (MAGnetic Expansion Control) Spinal Growing Rod, our understanding and approach to treating scoliosis have transformed significantly. Let’s delve into the details of these treatment methods and understand why the shift occurred.
The Era of the Harrington Rod
The Harrington rod, named after its inventor Dr. Paul Harrington, was a breakthrough in scoliosis treatment during the mid-20th century.
The Function and Limitations of the Harrington Rod
Harrington rods were surgically implanted along the spine to correct its curvature. They were effective in reducing spinal deformity, but they had their limitations. The procedure was invasive and required a significant recovery period. Additionally, the rods could lead to a ‘flatback’ condition, where the natural front-to-back curve of the spine was lost.
The Impact of Harrington Rods on Patient Lives
Despite these limitations, Harrington rods dramatically improved the quality of life for many scoliosis patients. They provided a solution for severe spinal deformities that were previously untreatable. However, the medical community continued to seek more advanced solutions that could offer better outcomes with fewer side effects.
Advancements Beyond the Harrington Rod
The limitations of Harrington rods propelled the medical community to develop stronger segmental fixation techniques and surgical implants. These advancements not only eliminated the flatback complication but also improved curve correction and reduced the surgical extent. By contouring the rod to reproduce normal spinal alignment in all dimensions and understanding the condition better, surgeons could now correct only the pathological curves. This approach allowed the body’s reactive or compensated curves to auto-correct, leveraging its inherent balancing ability, thus minimizing surgical intervention.
The Advent of Growing Rods
As medical technology advanced, growing rods emerged as a more refined solution for treating scoliosis, particularly in children.
How Growing Rods Work
Unlike Harrington rods, growing rods are expandable. They can be lengthened over time to accommodate a child’s growth, reducing the need for multiple invasive surgeries. This approach allows for a more natural spinal alignment and preserves the spine’s flexibility.
The Benefits of Growing Rods
Growing rods have several advantages over their predecessors. They allow for continued growth of the spine in pediatric patients, they require fewer surgeries, and they result in fewer post-operative complications. This has made them the preferred choice for treating scoliosis in children and young adults.
The Innovation of MAGEC® Spinal Growing Rods
The latest advancement in the field of scoliosis treatment is the MAGEC Spinal Growing Rod, a less-invasive treatment for children with early-onset scoliosis.
The Mechanism of MAGEC Rods
MAGEC rods are magnetically controlled growing rods that can be adjusted externally using a remote controller. This eliminates the need for repetitive surgeries to adjust the rod length, making the treatment process less invasive and more comfortable for young patients.
The Advantages of MAGEC Rods
MAGEC rods offer several benefits over traditional growing rods. They reduce the risk of complications associated with repeated surgeries, lessen the psychological impact of treatment on children, and allow for more consistent and controlled spinal growth.
Personalized Treatment at Scoliosis Care
At Scoliosis Care, we believe in providing personalized, comprehensive treatment plans. Our team of experienced specialists will work with you to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you or a loved one is dealing with scoliosis, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Scoliosis Care. Our team, led by David Siambanes, DO, is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care for both pediatric and adult scoliosis. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward improved health.
