Spinal Tethering for Scoliosis
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) safe for humans?
Studies on anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) for scoliosis show that it has some risks, with about 3.3% of patients experiencing major complications like fluid buildup in the chest or nerve issues, and another 3.3% having minor issues like nausea or wound infections. However, no patients needed blood transfusions, and most complications were manageable.12345
How is the treatment Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering (AVBT) for scoliosis different from other treatments?
Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering (AVBT) is unique because it corrects scoliosis without the need for spinal fusion, allowing for continued growth and flexibility in the spine. Unlike traditional methods that involve fusing the spine, AVBT uses a flexible cord to guide the spine's growth, making it a promising option for children who are still growing.13678
What is the purpose of this trial?
Anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) is a novel, minimally invasive, growth modulation technique that was recently approved by the FDA under a Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE). The goal of AVBT is to control curve progression by applying compression on the convex side of the spine deformity. While there has been great initial enthusiasm about the technique as an alternate treatment option to spinal fusion for skeletally immature children with scoliosis, there is a need to better understand the long-term outcomes.The purpose of this study is to report the long-term clinical outcomes of skeletally immature patients treated with AVBT, specifically:1. The effect on three-dimensional spine growth as compared to normal controls2. Maintenance of major Cobb angle less than or equal to 50 degrees at skeletal maturity3. Complications associated with both the procedure and the device
Research Team
Ron El-Hawary, MD
Principal Investigator
Dalhousie University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for skeletally immature children with idiopathic scoliosis who have a major Cobb angle between 30° and 65°, have not had prior spinal surgery at the levels to be treated, and are unable to use bracing. They must also be able to return for follow-up visits and agree to participate in study procedures.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo anterior vertebral body tethering surgery
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for complications and spine growth outcomes
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering
Anterior Vertebral Body Tethering is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Progressive idiopathic scoliosis in skeletally immature patients with a major Cobb angle of 30 to 65 degrees
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Pediatric Spine Foundation
Lead Sponsor