Magnetically-controlled "growing rods" promise less surgery for children with scoliosis

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Scoliosis is a lateral deformity of the spine, that most often shows up in young children and adolescents. Besides resulting in disfigurement, in some cases it can also cause breathing problems. In severe cases, if the child is still growing, telescoping steel rods are surgically implanted alongside the deformed section of the spine, in order to straighten it. Unfortunately, repeat surgeries are necessary every six months, in order to lengthen the rods as the child grows. Now, however, scientists from the University of Hong Kong are reporting success in the first human trials of the non-invasive magnetically-controlled growing rod (MCGR) system... Continue Reading Magnetically-controlled "growing rods" promise less surgery for children with scoliosis

Section: Health and Wellbeing

Tags: Children, Implant, Medical, Spinal, Surgery, University of Hong Kong

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