Decade-Long Progress of a Patient with Early Onset Scoliosis Treated with Serial Casting, Traditional Growth Rods and Posterior Spinal Instrumentation with Fusion - a Case Report.

Abstract

Early-onset scoliosis poses unique challenges for spinal and pediatric surgeons, as well as clinicians. Without intervention in pediatric patients, the spinal curvature may worsen, leading to abnormal thoracic cage growth, leading to abnormal lung development and poor respiratory tolerance. Treatment aims to correct the deformity while preserving the spinal mobility during growth. This is important because the growing spine will allow the child to achieve optimal height, a healthy thoracic cage, and cardiopulmonary system development. We can divide treatment modalities into observation, serial casting, bracing, and surgery. We are presenting a decade long progress report of a patient who initially underwent treatment with serial casting, growing rods, and definitive fixation for early-onset scoliosis. We strive to illustrate the complexities of early-onset scoliosis treatment by progressing from bracing to the application of a growth-friendly rod system, and finally to definitive posterior instrumentation.