Vertebral Body Tethering | Gillette Children's

Dec 15, 2018

Introduction

Welcome to the webpage dedicated to vertebral body tethering, a revolutionary treatment for scoliosis provided by Foley James D MD at Gillette Children's. If you or a loved one is seeking effective scoliosis treatment that offers significant benefits while minimizing drawbacks, you've come to the right place. Here, we will delve deep into the intricacies of vertebral body tethering, discussing its procedure, advantages, potential risks, and recovery process. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about this innovative treatment option.

Understanding Vertebral Body Tethering

Vertebral body tethering is a cutting-edge surgical technique used to correct scoliosis in adolescents with a spine curvature between 30 and 65 degrees. Unlike traditional scoliosis surgeries, such as spinal fusion, which involve the fusion of vertebrae using metal rods and screws, vertebral body tethering offers a more flexible alternative. During the procedure, a flexible cord, typically made of a biocompatible material, is attached to the concave side of the scoliotic curve. The cord is then tensioned to gradually straighten the spine while allowing for continued growth.

Benefits of Vertebral Body Tethering

Vertebral body tethering presents numerous advantages over traditional scoliosis treatments:

  • Preserves Spinal Flexibility: Unlike spinal fusion, vertebral body tethering allows the spine to maintain mobility, resulting in improved overall spinal function.
  • Minimally Invasive: The procedure involves smaller incisions and reduced disruption to surrounding tissues, leading to shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times compared to traditional surgeries.
  • Potential for Growth: As vertebral body tethering doesn't eliminate growth potential, it is particularly suitable for young patients who may undergo significant spinal growth after surgery.
  • Avoidance of Fusion-related Complications: By preserving spinal motion, vertebral body tethering helps minimize the risk of long-term complications associated with spinal fusion, such as adjacent segment disease.

Potential Risks

While vertebral body tethering offers many benefits, it is essential to be aware of potential risks and complications. These may include:

  • Implant Failure: Rare instances of cord breakage or loosening may necessitate further surgical intervention.
  • Curve Progression: In some cases, the curvature may progress despite the tethering, requiring additional treatment.
  • Pseudoarthrosis: There is a small risk of the vertebrae not fusing properly.
  • Reoperation: In certain cases, revision surgery may be necessary to address any complications or ongoing issues.

Recovery Process

Following vertebral body tethering surgery, a comprehensive and individualized rehabilitation plan will be created to aid in your recovery.

You can expect the following during your recovery period:

  • Hospital Stay: Typically, patients spend a few days in the hospital to ensure a smooth initial recovery. Pain management will be provided as necessary.
  • Physical Therapy: A crucial aspect of the recovery process, physical therapy helps strengthen the back muscles, improve range of motion, and enhance overall function. Your healthcare team will guide you through an appropriate physical therapy program.
  • Activity Restrictions: You may be required to avoid certain activities or movements during the initial recovery phase to promote proper healing.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan.

Conclusion

Vertebral body tethering is an exciting treatment option that offers numerous benefits for individuals with scoliosis. By choosing Foley James D MD at Gillette Children's, you can rest assured that you're receiving care from experienced professionals who are at the forefront of this innovative approach. Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider to determine if vertebral body tethering is the right treatment path for your unique condition. Take control of your scoliosis journey and explore the possibilities of vertebral body tethering today!

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